TOTBİD Derleme Dergisi

TOTBİD Derleme Dergisi

2026, Cilt 25, Sayı, 3     (Sayfalar: 258-265)

Elbow injuries in sports

Barış Kocaoğlu 1-2, Müge Kıraç 1

1 Acıbadem Üniversitesi, Tıp Fakültesi, Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji Ana Bilim Dalı, İstanbul
2 Acıbadem Altunizade Hastanesi, Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji Kliniği, İstanbul

DOI: 10.5578/totbid.derleme.dergisi.2026.32
Görüntüleme: 11
 - 
İndirme : 7

Elbow injuries in athletes most commonly occur as a result of repetitive microtrauma, sudden overload, or traumatic contact. The mechanism of injury is largely related to the biomechanical demands and loading patterns specific to the sport performed. The incidence of elbow injuries varies according to the type of sport, the athlete`s age, and the nature of the applied mechanical load. A detailed medical history and thorough physical examination constitute the cornerstone of diagnosing elbow injuries in athletes. The mechanism of injury, onset of symptoms, sport discipline, and performance level of the athlete guide the diagnostic process. Physical examination should include careful assessment of range of motion, localized tenderness on palpation, signs of instability, muscle strength, and neurovascular status. Imaging modalities should be selected based on clinical findings. Plain radiographs represent the first-line imaging tool for evaluating osseous structures, joint congruency, and fractures. Magnetic resonance imaging is considered the gold standard for the assessment of ligamentous, tendinous, and cartilaginous structures. Computed tomography is preferred for detailed evaluation of complex fractures and intra-articular osseous pathologies, whereas ultrasonography may be used in selected cases for dynamic assessment and evaluation of superficial tendon disorders. Treatment should be planned by considering the type and severity of the injury, the athlete`s age, activity level, and expectations regarding return to sport. In many elbow injuries, conservative management is the first-line approach. Activity modification, pain control, early controlled motion, and structured rehabilitation programs form the foundation of treatment. Surgical intervention is indicated in cases of ligament injuries leading to instability, full-thickness tendon ruptures, or failure of conservative treatment. The primary goals of surgical management are to restore joint stability, repair anatomical structures, and enable the athlete to safely return first to functional activities and subsequently to sports participation. Treatment strategies should always be individualized, with careful consideration of long-term functional outcomes.

Anahtar Kelimeler : instability; osteochondritis dissecans; medial epicondylitis; lateral epicondylitis; olecranon bursitis; nerve entrapment syndromes