Elbow Tendon & Nerve Injuries
Conditions such as biceps and triceps tendonitis and tendon tears can cause pain, weakness, numbness and difficulty performing everyday activities.
The elbow relies on a complex system of tendons and nerves to support strength, movement and sensation in the arm. Injuries to these structures are often more significant than simple overuse conditions and may occur from sudden trauma, forceful strain or progressive degeneration. These injuries can lead to pain, weakness and difficulty using the arm for everyday activities.
Causes of Elbow Tendon & Nerve Injuries
Elbow tendon and nerve injuries are most often caused by a specific event or repeated stress over time, including:
- Sudden forceful lifting or pulling
- Direct trauma or impact to the elbow
- Sports injuries involving throwing or heavy gripping
- Degeneration of tendons over time
- Severe or untreated overuse injuries that progress
- Compression or stretching of nearby nerves
Elbow Tendon & Nerve Injury Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the structure involved but may include:
- Sudden or severe pain in the elbow or forearm
- Weakness when lifting, pushing or gripping
- A “pop” or tearing sensation at the time of injury
- Swelling or bruising
- Difficulty straightening or bending the elbow
- Numbness, tingling or radiating arm pain (if a nerve is involved)
Common Elbow Tendon Injuries
Biceps Tendon Injuries
The biceps tendon helps bend the elbow and rotate the forearm. Injuries can range from inflammation to partial or complete tears, often causing pain in the front of the elbow and weakness with lifting or turning the palm.
Triceps Tendon Injuries
The triceps tendon helps straighten the elbow. Injury can lead to pain in the back of the elbow, swelling and difficulty pushing or extending the arm.
Treatment for Elbow Tendon & Nerve Injuries
Treatment depends on the severity and type of injury and may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Bracing or immobilization
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
- Corticosteroid injections in select cases
- Surgical repair for complete tendon tears or severe injuries
Meet Our Hand, Wrist and Elbow Team
As part of the Summa Health Orthopedics Institute, our hand, wrist and elbow team is led by board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons with advanced expertise in treating these conditions and injuries. Working closely with therapists and other specialists, they provide personalized care focused on relieving pain, restoring function and helping patients get back to their daily activities.