Elbow Injury

Elbow Injury

• The elbow joint makes it possible to bend and straighten the arm and to rotate the forearm so that the palm of the hand faces up or down.
• The elbow is made up of three joints. These are where the bones of the upper arm, called the humerus, and those of the forearm, the ulna and radius, come together.
• These bones are supported by ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Ligaments are tough cords of tissue that attach bone to bone.
• Tendons attach muscles to bone, and muscles help the elbow to bend, extend, and rotate.
• Many elbow sprains or strains are caused by repetitive use of the joint during sports such as tennis or golf or jobs such as carpentry.
• Overuse of the elbow can irritate the tendons that attach the muscles of the forearm to bone and cause them to swell, strain, or tear—a condition commonly known as “tennis elbow.” This injury can occur regardless of whether you play tennis.
• Some elbow sprains and strains occur suddenly, such as when you break a fall with an outstretched arm. These types of injuries can also be caused by twisting the arm or by a blow to the elbow.
• Symptoms can include pain, tenderness, or swelling around the elbow during movement or at rest. It can become difficult to bend or extend the elbow, or you may experience bruising, redness, or warmth around the elbow.

Medical History and Physical Examination

• A doctor may ask specific questions about your symptoms, including whether they began gradually or appeared after an injury. He or she may ask about any prior injuries to the area and any activities that require repetitive use of the elbow. This is because certain activities, such as hammering or swimming, can affect specific ligaments, muscles, or tendons in the elbow.
• During a physical exam, your doctor evaluates how well you can bend and extend your elbow and rotate your forearm and whether these movements cause any pain. He or she may also examine your wrist, neck, and shoulder to determine if injuries in these areas are causing elbow pain.
• A doctor may recommend imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and to distinguish between a sprain and a strain.