Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
Degenerative irritation of the common extensor tendon at the outer elbow, strongly associated with repetitive gripping and wrist extension activity.
The large majority of elbow complaints in adults relate to overuse of the tendons attaching near the epicondyles rather than to the joint itself or to acute trauma.
Less common presentations include nerve entrapment, ligament injury in throwing athletes, and degenerative joint changes, each with distinct patterns of onset and risk factors.
Relative clinical burden
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)70
Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow)40
Cubital tunnel syndrome30
Elbow bursitis25
Ulnar collateral ligament injury15
Elbow osteoarthritis20
Common conditions
Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow)
A similar condition affecting the common flexor tendon at the inner elbow, associated with repetitive gripping and wrist flexion activity.
Cubital tunnel syndrome
Compression of the ulnar nerve behind the inner elbow, often aggravated by prolonged elbow bending, producing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers.
Elbow bursitis
Swelling of the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow, often related to repeated pressure or minor trauma, sometimes producing a visible soft lump.
Ulnar collateral ligament injury
Injury to the inner elbow ligament from repetitive throwing stress, most notable in baseball pitchers, ranging from mild sprain to complete rupture.
Elbow osteoarthritis
Degenerative joint change most common after prior trauma or in occupations involving heavy repetitive loading, producing stiffness and reduced range of motion.
Because tendon-related conditions dominate elbow presentations, a careful history of activity and load is often as informative as the physical examination itself in identifying the likely diagnosis.
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