Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, ligament injuries, fractures and arthritis. Find out what’s causing your elbow pain and how it can be treated.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicolás Zarur · Updated October 2026
The elbow works every time you grip, lift or throw. Most elbow pain comes from overused tendons and improves without surgery, but injuries in throwing athletes or after a fall need a precise diagnosis to avoid long-term stiffness.
Overuse of the tendons on the outside of the elbow, from sports or repetitive work.
Similar tendon irritation on the inside of the elbow.
Damage to the inner elbow ligament, common in baseball pitchers and throwing athletes.
Injuries after a fall on an outstretched hand that need prompt care.
Pressure on the “funny bone” nerve that causes tingling in the hand.
Wear or bone fragments that cause pain, catching and loss of motion.
Dr. Zarur examines the elbow’s motion, stability and nerves and, when needed, orders X-rays, ultrasound or an MRI. Most tendon problems are treated without surgery.
Non-surgical
Rest, activity changes, bracing, physical therapy and, in some cases, injections.
Arthroscopy
Minimally invasive surgery to remove loose bodies, bone spurs or damaged tissue. [Confirm Dr. Zarur performs elbow arthroscopy.]
Repair or reconstruction
Surgery for torn ligaments or tendons that don’t respond to other treatments.
Fracture surgery
Fixation of complex elbow fractures to restore motion and stability.
Yes. Most cases happen in people who don’t play tennis. Any repetitive gripping, like using tools, a mouse or lifting, can cause it.
Most cases improve within weeks to months with rest, physical therapy and activity changes. Few patients need surgery.
A strap brace can relieve pain during activity in tennis or golfer’s elbow. Dr. Zarur will tell you if it’s right for your case.
It can be a sign of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow. It should be evaluated, especially if you notice weakness in your hand.
Yes. Our Tijuana office is minutes from San Diego, and we offer remote review of your imaging before you travel.
Book a visit in Tijuana or Mexico City, or send us your imaging for a remote review.
Get a clear diagnosis and honest options. We reply within one business day.
Trusted by Champions
Former President of the Mexican Football Federation’s Medical Commission and team physician for Cruz Azul, Morelia, Veracruz and Frontón México.
