Common Elbow Injuries

1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

• Area of Pain: The outside (lateral side) of the elbow, which can radiate down the forearm.

• Affected Anatomy: The extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon and the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer humerus) where forearm extensor muscles attach.

• Explanation: Caused by repetitive micro-tears in the tendon fibers that join the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. While named tennis elbow, it frequently results from computer work, gripping tools, or weightlifting.

2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

• Area of Pain: The inside (medial side) of the elbow, sometimes radiating into the inner forearm and wrist.

• Affected Anatomy: The flexor-pronator muscle group tendons and the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inner humerus).

• Explanation: Similar to tennis elbow, but occurs on the opposite side of the joint. It stems from repetitive wrist flexion and gripping, inflaming the tendons that bend the wrist toward the palm.

3. Olecranon Bursitis

• Area of Pain: Directly over the tip of the elbow (the olecranon process), accompanied by swelling and localized tenderness.

• Affected Anatomy: The olecranon bursa, a fluid-filled sac situated between the bone and the overlying skin that reduces friction.

• Explanation: Can be triggered by direct trauma (like a fall or resting the elbow on hard surfaces for prolonged periods), infection, or chronic irritation.

4. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Neuropathy)

• Area of Pain / Sensation: Numbness and tingling in the ring and pinky fingers, accompanied by a dull ache on the inner side of the elbow.

• Affected Anatomy: The ulnar nerve (commonly known as the "funny bone" nerve) as it passes through the cubital tunnel behind the inner elbow.

• Explanation: Caused by prolonged compression or stretching of the ulnar nerve, often from keeping the elbow bent for long periods (e.g., sleeping with arms curled or leaning on elbows).