Elbow Injury Types Explained: From Tennis Elbow to UCL Tears

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

The most common elbow overuse injury, affecting the extensor tendons on the outer elbow. It causes pain with gripping, lifting, and twisting motions. MRI shows tendon thickening and signal changes at the lateral epicondyle. Most cases resolve with conservative care. Read our detailed guide on whether tennis elbow can heal without surgery.

Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)

Similar to tennis elbow but affects the flexor-pronator tendons on the inner elbow. Common in golfers, throwers, and workers performing repetitive wrist flexion. Pain occurs with gripping and wrist flexion against resistance. MRI reveals tendinosis or partial tearing of the common flexor tendon origin. Treatment mirrors tennis elbow with activity modification and eccentric strengthening.

UCL Tear (Tommy John Injury)

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the medial elbow is critical for overhead throwing athletes. UCL tears cause medial elbow pain during throwing and may produce a popping sensation at the time of injury. Partial tears may respond to rehabilitation and PRP therapy, while complete tears in competitive throwers typically require surgical reconstruction (Tommy John surgery). MRI with arthrogram is the gold standard for diagnosis.

Radial Head Fracture

The most common elbow fracture in adults, typically caused by a fall on an outstretched hand. Classified using the Mason system: Type I (nondisplaced) fractures are treated with a brief sling and early motion, Type II (displaced) fractures may need fixation, and Type III (comminuted) fractures often require surgery or radial head replacement. X-rays are the first-line imaging, with CT or MRI for complex cases.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

OCD of the elbow most commonly affects the capitellum in young throwing athletes and gymnasts. A segment of cartilage and underlying bone loses its blood supply and may separate from the joint surface. Early stages with intact cartilage may heal with activity restriction, while unstable or detached fragments typically require arthroscopic surgery. MRI is essential for staging and treatment planning. Learn how imaging reveals these findings in our elbow MRI reading guide.

Key Takeaways

• Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow are overuse tendon conditions that usually respond to conservative care
• UCL tears are critical injuries for throwers and may require surgical reconstruction
• Radial head fractures are the most common elbow fracture and are classified by the Mason system
• OCD of the capitellum affects young athletes and requires MRI for accurate staging

Frequently Asked Questions