ELBOW

What is tennis elbow?

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is inflammation of the tendon that connects the muscles of the forearm, wrist, and hand to the upper arm at the elbow. The tendon on the bony outside (lateral) part of the elbow (the epicondyle) is most often irritated by overuse during physical activity.

What is tendinitis?

Tendinitis (also called tendonitis) is inflammation of a tendon, a band of tissue that connects muscle to bone. It is most commonly the result of overuse during physical activities. Repetitive motions can stretch and irritate the tendon, causing pain and swelling. Tendinitis occurs around joints such as the elbow, shoulder, wrist, ankle, or knee.

What is bursitis?

Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa or bursae (more than one bursa), small fluid-filled sacs that cushion areas of friction around joints. Bursae contain synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. Bursitis typically occurs as a result of overuse during physical activities or infection of the synovial fluid. If a bursa becomes infected or irritated from repetitive stress, it will cause pain and limited movement. Bursitis is most common in the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, or heel.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the term used to describe a specific group of symptoms (tingling, numbness, weakness, or pain) in the fingers or hand and occasionally in the lower arm and elbow. These symptoms occur when there is pressure on a nerve (median nerve) within the wrist (carpal tunnel). Carpal tunnel syndrome develops over time because of repetitive hand motions that damage muscle and bone in the wrist area.

Tommy John Surgery

Also known as Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Reconstruction, Tommy John surgery is a surgical procedure to reconstruct the UCL using a tendon from the forearm. The tendon is used to recreate the damaged ligament and improve the stability of the elbow joint. The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is on the inside of the elbow joint. Patients with injury to this ligament have pain on the inside of the elbow and instability of the joint. Other causes of pain on the inside of the elbow include tendonitis, and ulnar nerve conditions. Pain and injuries to the UCL are commonly seen in baseball players.

Benefits and Risks of Tommy John Surgery

Treating Elbow Injuries in Athletes with Tommy John Surgery