Understanding Elbow Conditions
The elbow is a hinge joint that allows bending, straightening, and rotation of the forearm. It is formed by three bones and stabilized by ligaments, tendons, and the ulnar nerve. Elbow conditions range from tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow to UCL injuries and cubital tunnel syndrome. At Precision Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our fellowship-trained hand, upper extremity, and sports medicine specialists serve patients across Maryland and the DC Metro Area, offering both non-operative and surgical care for the full spectrum of elbow conditions.
Common Symptoms, Conditions & Treatment Options for Elbow Pain
Symptoms
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow
- Weakness when gripping or lifting
- Numbness or tingling in the ring & little fingers
- Swelling or tenderness at the elbow
- Stiffness or loss of range of motion
- Popping or locking sensation
Conditions
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Cubital tunnel syndrome
- Bursitis, tendonitis, and sprains
- UCL / Tommy John injuries
- Biceps & triceps tendon tears
- Elbow fractures & dislocations
Treatment Options
- Activity modification & bracing
- Physical therapy & strengthening
- Corticosteroid injections
- PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy
- Arthroscopic debridement
- UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery)
- Nerve decompression & transposition
- Fracture fixation
Frequently Asked Questions
See an elbow specialist if you have persistent elbow pain that does not improve with rest, numbness or tingling in your fingers, decreased grip strength, difficulty straightening the arm, or elbow stiffness that limits daily activities.
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow caused by repetitive gripping and wrist extension. It is common in racquet sports, manual labor, and computer use.
Treatment begins with rest, bracing, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Corticosteroid or PRP injections may be added. Surgery is considered only after 6 to 12 months of conservative treatment fails to provide relief.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers. It is the second most common nerve compression in the upper extremity after carpal tunnel.
- Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow (conservative): Improvement in 6 to 12 weeks.
- Tennis Elbow Release Surgery: Return to activity in 4 to 6 weeks.
- UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John): Return to throwing at 9 to 12 months.
- Cubital Tunnel Release: Recovery in 4 to 6 weeks; nerve improvement may continue for months.