A clinical approach to chronic injuries of the elbow

Objectives: This review details the clinical approach to chronic injuries of the elbow and describes not only the common conditions occurring but those which are less common and about which the physician should be aware. Data sources: A thorough search of the MEDLINE database was conducted, using the individual conditions as search items. Study section: The information in this review is taken from the author's own experience, a review of articles and classical textbooks on the different conditions. Conclusions: Most elbow injuries occur as chronic repetitive overuse injuries and are related to the duration and intensity of the exercise. They can be diagnosed with a detailed history and thorough examination in most cases, special investigations are often not required. The physician must be aware of the less common conditions, particularly instability, where the history is the more useful and the examination finding often subtle. Decreased range of motion and in particular loss of extension usually signifies intra-articular pathology. Most conditions are treated with non-operative methods. Arthroscopy has become a useful tool in diagnosis and treatment.