Elbow injuries can occur in most sports, especially those involving throwing or swinging, such as volleyball, golf, tennis and baseball. The elbow also can be injured in contact sports such as hockey and football, and from falls sustained during gymnastics and wrestling. This article offers an overview of the elbow and common elbow injuries. |
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Common Elbow Injuries
Fracture and dislocation.
Fractures of the elbow joint can occur in any sport. Signs of fracture may include pain, swelling, deformity and loss of motion. The ability to move a joint does not always mean the absence of a fracture.
Tendonitis.
Tendonitis is inflammation of the muscle tendon. Common forms of tendonitis are tennis elbow, golfers elbow or little league elbow. Tennis elbow is an overuse injury often caused by a bad backhand technique or racquet grip that is too small. Signs of tennis elbow include pain on the outside of the elbow, weakness in the wrist, pain with extension of the wrist or fingers against a resistance, and tenderness on the bone of the outside of the joint. Treatment includes ice, rest, bracing for support, and gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.
Bursa sac injuries
A bursa is a small fluid-filled cushion or sack that serves as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. In the center of the arm, the bursa allows the skin to slide over the bony prominence of the elbow. Bursa injuries are common in sports in which the risk of falling on the tip of the elbow is high. Bursa injuries can be chronic or acute. Acute bursitis (inflammation of the bursa) is usually caused by direct trauma to the elbow. Signs include pain, swelling, and limited motion. Treatment includes ice, compression wrap, and possible aspiration (withdrawing excess fluid) if the swelling does not subside. Chronic bursitis results from repetitive trauma and fluid build up. The area around the bursa may feel thick to the touch. Treatment includes rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medication. |
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