Elbow Injuries

Known as "tennis elbow," lateral epicondylitis is a common injury for NFL players who frequently use their arms for throwing or tackling. It involves inflammation of the tendons on the outer elbow, causing pain and discomfort. Players often experience difficulty gripping or lifting objects, which can impact their performance and require rest and physical therapy for recovery.

Medial epicondylitis, or "golfer's elbow," affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow. In the NFL, this condition can result from repetitive throwing motions or direct impacts. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the inner elbow, which can hinder a player’s ability to execute throws or block effectively. Treatment typically involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.

Elbow dislocations occur when the bones of the elbow joint are forced out of alignment, usually from high-impact collisions or awkward falls. For NFL players, this injury can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited movement. Immediate medical attention is necessary to realign the joint, followed by a rehabilitation period to restore strength and range of motion.

UCL injuries are particularly prevalent among NFL players who engage in repetitive throwing motions. The UCL, located on the inner side of the elbow, can become strained or torn, leading to pain and instability. Treatment often involves rest, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical reconstruction known as Tommy John surgery.

Olecranon bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac at the back of the elbow. NFL players may develop this condition from repetitive impacts or falls. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and tenderness at the elbow’s tip. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, and in some cases, aspiration or medication to reduce inflammation and pain.