Sports Elbow Injuries
Receiving evidence-based care and optimal outcomes from an orthopaedic surgeon.
Sports-related elbow injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, particularly those involved in throwing, racquet sports, or strength training. Injuries like these can lead to pain, reduced range of motion, and impaired performance if not diagnosed and treated appropriately.
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide, specialising in elbow and upper limb injuries. He offers comprehensive care for a wide range of elbow conditions caused by sports or overuse, from initial diagnosis to non-surgical and surgical management.
Overuse of the shoulder causes sporting injuries in this body part. Injuries can be caused by repetitive biceps contractions or extension and twisting of the wrist.
The extensor tendon located on the elbow's outside is often affected by sporting injuries. The tendons inside the elbow are affected by others. Posterior impingement occurs when the elbow's bone and cartilage become inflamed. Cartilage pieces may break due to sporting injuries, and these pieces float within the joint, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Common Elbow Conditions Caused by Playing Sport
Caused by overuse of the forearm extensor tendons, tennis elbow results in pain on the outer side of the elbow. It commonly affects tennis players, weightlifters, and people performing repetitive gripping tasks.
Similar to tennis elbow, this condition affects the tendons on the inner elbow. It’s common in golfers, throwers, and manual workers who repeatedly bend the wrist and clench the fingers.
The elbow and radius bone are connected via the distal biceps tendon. This tendon can rupture when overused and worn, resulting in elbow pain. This can also cause the retracting of the biceps muscle into the upper arm, making a noticeable bump.
Repetitive elbow extension results in this condition. Patients with this condition struggle to straighten their elbow without pain in the elbow's back, and clicking or locking may be experienced during this motion.
This condition requires urgent treatment, and other injuries (including instability and fractures) may be experienced in conjunction with a dislocation. Complex conditions arise from elbow dislocations, and ongoing treatment is often required.
Some sports injuries may benefit from non-surgical treatment.
Such treatments may include:
- The consumption of anti-inflammatory drugs for the reduction of swelling and pain
- Allowing the elbow to rest (specifically for repetition injuries)
- Immobilising and supporting the elbow via a splint or strap
- Physiotherapy exercises
- Corticosteroid injections for swelling or pain reduction
Surgery may be required as soon as possible for complex conditions such as distal biceps ruptures.
Symptoms from Sports Elbow Injuries
Elbow sporting injuries usually are painful and are marked by distinctive symptoms. Seek treatment if you have any of the following symptoms. Permanent damage can be prevented through early intervention.
- Pain and tenderness are experienced when putting pressure on the elbow's outside.
- Pain when partaking in heavy lifting
- Elbow locking or clicking (which may cause pain)
- Weakness or pain when attempting to grip items
- Pain when partaking in clenching movements or shaking hands
- Sharp pains that extend from the elbow to the arm or hand
- Elbow and forearm weakness
- Pain when stretching fingers
- Elbow aches when sleeping or resting
Diagnosis and Imaging
Dr Brumby-Rendell will conduct a detailed assessment, which includes:
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Clinical examination of the elbow joint, strength, and range of motion
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Activity and sport-specific history review
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Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to identify soft tissue and structural injuries
A precise diagnosis allows for a targeted treatment plan that supports safe return to sport.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Most sports-related elbow injuries can be managed without surgery, especially when caught early.
Conservative treatment may include:
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Activity modification and rest
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Anti-inflammatory medications
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Physiotherapy focusing on strength and flexibility
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Bracing or taping during activity
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Corticosteroid injections for pain relief (in selected cases)
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections for tendon healing (if appropriate)
A structured rehabilitation program is essential to reduce the risk of re-injury and restore full function.
Surgical Treatment for Sports Elbow Injuries
If non-surgical treatment fails or if the injury is severe, Dr Brumby-Rendell may recommend minimally invasive elbow surgery.
Surgical options include:
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Tendon debridement or repair for chronic epicondylitis
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UCL reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery) for ligament tears
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Arthroscopic surgery for cartilage injuries or joint stiffness
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Bursectomy for chronic bursitis
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Fragment removal or fixation in cases of osteochondritis dissecans
Surgery is followed by a personalised rehabilitation plan to ensure optimal recovery and return to sport.
Recovery and Return to Play
Recovery timelines vary depending on the injury and treatment method. General milestones include:
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Return to light activity: 2–6 weeks (non-surgical)
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Sport-specific rehab: Begins 6–12 weeks post-injury or surgery
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Full return to competitive sport: Typically 3–6 months after surgery
Dr Brumby-Rendell works closely with sports physiotherapists and athletic trainers to ensure a safe and effective return to play.
Why Choose Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell for Sports Elbow Injury Care?
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell is highly experienced in treating sports-related elbow injuries using evidence-based, personalised approaches. He supports both recreational and elite athletes with:
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Timely and accurate diagnosis
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Non-operative and surgical expertise
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Collaborative rehabilitation planning
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Focus on long-term joint health and performance
His Adelaide-based clinic provides comprehensive upper limb care for athletes of all levels.
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Learn more about tennis elbows and other elbow-related injuries with Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell
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