Elbow

The elbow is a hinged joint that connects the upper arm and the forearm. It is composed of three bones: the humerus of the upper arm, and the radius and ulna of the forearm. Like the ankle and knee, the elbow is also a synovial joint, which is characterised by a smooth cartilage, articular capsule and synovial fluid that act as a shock absorber and lubricant. These three work together to enable movement and stability between the adjacent bones.

What are the Common Causes of Elbow Conditions and Injuries?

Elbow injuries in Singapore are mostly caused by overuse as a result of performing daily tasks that require repetitive motion in the elbow or engaging in physical and sports activities. Other common causes of elbow injuries include elbow instability, poor sports techniques, inappropriate use or lack of sports equipment, no warm-ups or cool-downs, falls and vehicular accidents. Medical conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis may also lead to elbow injuries.

What are the Most Common Elbow Injuries?

The most common elbow injuries in Singapore include:

Tennis elbow – This is the most common of elbow diseases and conditions in Singapore, which occurs when the tendons in the elbow are overused. It is typically brought on by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Tennis elbow frequently afflicts athletes who engage in racquet sports; however, it can also affect people who perform sports and activities that overwork the forearm muscles and tendons.
Elbow bursitis – This refers to a painful swelling affecting the part of the elbow joint known as the olecranon bursa, a fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects the elbow.
Olecranon fracture – This is an elbow injury that is characterised by a break in the bony point of the elbow that protrudes when one bends his arm. This pointy bone is part of the ulna, one of the bones that make up the elbow joint.
Ulnar injury – This occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs and enables movement from the shoulder and down to the hand, becomes damaged, irritated or compressed (cubital tunnel syndrome). Symptoms include pain, numbness and tingling in the elbow.

What Elbow Conditions are Treated by Axis Orthopaedic Centre?

Axis Orthopaedic Centre offers a range of medical and surgical treatments to treat elbow injuries and disorders in Singapore. Some of the conditions treated include:

Elbow Fracture
Elbow Dislocation
Elbow Bursitis
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Tennis Elbow
Elbow Sprain
Golfer’s Elbow

FAQ on Elbow Injuries

How do I know if my elbow injury is serious?

When should you see a doctor for elbow pain?

How do you know if you tore something in your elbow?

How do I know if I pulled something in my elbow?

What does a torn elbow tendon feel like?

How long do elbow injuries take to heal?

How do you know if you broke or sprained your elbow?

Axis Orthopaedic Clinic specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of orthopaedic elbow conditions in Singapore. Visit us or call 9711 8888 for more information.