Overuse Injuries of the Elbow

In brief Sports-related overuse injuries brief of the elbow occur most often in people involved in throwing and racket sports. Common injuries include medial and lateral epicondylitis, radial tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve entrapment, triceps and biceps tendinitis, and conditions related to valgus extension overload: ulnar collateral ligament tears, lateral compartment osteochondral injuries, and posterior olecranon impingement. Accurate diagnosis requires an understanding of elbow anatomy and a careful physical examination. Most of these injuries respond to activity modification, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and a directed rehabilitation program. Surgical intervention, however, is occasionally necessary.