Overuse Elbow Injuries

The elbow is an example of a hinge joint, or a joint that moves in only one plane of direction. It if formed by three bones -- the humerus, radius and ulna -- and two ligaments. Activities involving repetitive motions at the elbow joint place the muscles and ligaments surrounding the joint at risk for injury. Some overuse injuries of the elbow include:

Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer's elbow is an inflammatory disorder medically known as medial epicondylitis. Golfer's elbow results when the muscles that flex, or forward bend, the wrist are overused. This overuse results in swelling, or inflammation of the muscle tendons. It results in pain and discomfort at the inner aspect of the elbow joint.

Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is an inflammatory disorder medically known as lateral epicondylitis. Tennis elbow results when the muscles the extend, or back bend, the wrist are overused. This overuse results in swelling, or inflammation of the muscle tendons. It results in pain and discomfort at the outer aspect of the elbow joint.