Elbow & Forearm Injuries Sprains and Strains Elbow & Forearm Injuries

Introduction Sprains and Strains Have you ever sustained an injury to your elbow? Where was the pain located? Did the injury produce swelling? What was done to treat the injury?

Objectives Students will be able to: Sprains and Strains Indentify the S&S of injuries to the elbow and forearm Identify the appropriate Tx for injuries to the elbow and forearm

Terminology Sprains and Strains Elbow hyperextension: The elbow is forced beyond normal extension, which damages the ligaments, tendons and muscles of the elbow. Occurs more frequently in contact sports. (rugby, football, certain martial arts, rodeo, etc.).

Strains Sprains and Strains Biceps Brachii Triceps Brachii anterior view posterior view

Sprains and Strains Any sport that subjects an athlete to repetitive elbow flexion, extension, valgus and varus forces or wrist motion can cause a sprain or strain.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) Sprains and Strains Mechanism Repetitive stress/poor mechanics to the wrist extensor tendons In what other industrial occupations would this injury occur? Signs & Symptoms Pain over lateral epicondyle. Minimal swelling Movements such as gripping, lifting and carrying tend to be troublesome. Treatment RICE, support (elbow strap), decrease activity, mild stretching and strengthening

Little Leaguer’s Elbow/Golfer’s Elbow(Medial Epicondylitis) Sprains and Strains Mechanism Repetitive throwing Stress to wrist flexor tendons Signs & Symptoms Pain over the medial epicondyle Inflammation Treatment RICE, support (elbow strap), decrease activity, mild stretching and strengthening

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Sprain (UCL Sprain) Sprains and Strains Mechanism Repetitive stress to medial aspect of the elbow that stretches the Ulnar Collateral ligament What activities would place stress on the medial elbow? Signs & Symptoms Pain over medial elbow Swelling Joint laxity Treatment RICE, elastic bandage, decrease activity Severe injury may need to be splinted

Elbow Hyperextension Sprains and Strains Mechanism Elbow forced into hyperextension Signs & Symptoms Pain on the anterior aspect of the elbow May have pain on Olecranon fossa Inflammation Treatment RICE, elastic bandage, decrease activity, taping for return-to-play