OVERUSE INJURIES OF THE ELBOW

Sports-related overuse injuries of the elbow occur most often in peopl e involved in throwing and racket sports. Common injuries include medi al and lateral epicondylitis, radial tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve entr apment, triceps and biceps tendinitis, and conditions related to valgu s extension overload: ulnar collateral ligament tears, lateral compart ment osteochondral injuries, and posterior olecranon impingement. Accu rate diagnosis requires an understanding of elbow anatomy and a carefu l physical examination. Most of these injuries respond to activity mod ification,, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and a directed rehab ilitation program. Surgical intervention, however is occasionally nece ssary.