The elbow is subjected to daily use through normal, everyday activities as well as during participation in sports activities. It’s not surprising that problems can develop in the elbow over time. Trauma, overuse, aging, and degenerative disorders, such as arthritis, can affect your elbows.

The elbow is a hinge joint where three long bones meet in the middle portion of the arm. The bone of the upper arm (humerus) meets the inner bone of the forearm (ulna) and the outer bone of the forearm (radius). The bicep muscle is the major muscle that flexes the elbow hinge. The tricep muscle is the major muscle that extends the elbow hinge. A fluid-filled sac (bursa), which serves to reduce friction, overlies the tip of the elbow. The elbow can be affected by inflammation of the tendons or the bursa, or conditions which affect the bones and joints, such as fractures, arthritis, or nerve irritation.