Managing Elbow Joint Injuries From Tennis Elbow to Fall Related Trauma

The elbow is a complex hinge-and-pivot joint that coordinates movement between the upper arm and forearm. Whether caused by repetitive motion from work or sports, or sudden trauma from a fall, elbow injuries can limit arm function and daily strength.

Common Elbow Injuries and Symptoms

1. Tennis Elbow vs. Golfers Elbow Tendinopathy

• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Pain on the outside of the elbow caused by repetitive wrist extension and gripping motions.

• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow): Causes sore inner elbow tissue and pain on the inside of the elbow. If the inner elbow hurts when gripping, lifting, or flexing the wrist, inflammation in the flexor-pronator tendon origin is usually responsible.

  
  

2. Elbow Ligament Injuries

Ligaments like the Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) stabilise the elbow joint. Ligament tears or sprains commonly occur from repetitive throwing sports or high-impact hyperextension during falls.

3. Traumatic Elbow Injuries from a Fall

Falling onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the elbow point can lead to:

• Elbow Fractures: Fractures of the radial head, olecranon (elbow tip), or distal humerus.

• Elbow Dislocations: Misalignment where the forearm bones pop out of place relative to the upper arm bone.