The radial nerve runs the length of the arm, powering the muscles that straighten the wrist and fingers and carrying sensation to the back of the hand. When it's compressed or trapped — radial nerve entrapment — it can cause anything from weakness and "wrist drop" to nagging outer forearm pain. So where does [...]
A radial head fracture is the commonest fracture around the elbow. It usually happens after a fall onto an outstretched hand, and most are minor and heal well — but some need surgery, and a few come with important associated injuries. So how do we grade a radial head fracture, and how is each [...]
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the elbow, also known as the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), is essential for stabilising the inside of the elbow. An elbow medial collateral ligament tear is a serious injury that affects throwing athletes. This injury can result in elbow pain and instability, requiring careful treatment to ensure a [...]
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow affects the cartilage and bone of the elbow joint, most often in young throwing athletes and gymnasts. It typically affects the capitellum — the knuckle of bone on the outer side of the elbow. Left untreated, it can cause a loose fragment, locking, and early arthritis. So what [...]
Elbow popping or cracking is a common concern in active people. It can happen with or without pain, and the causes range from simple joint mechanics to problems such as ligament, nerve, or cartilage damage. So what causes elbow cracking or popping, and when should you see a doctor? Causes of elbow popping or [...]
A radial collateral ligament tear of the elbow is a relatively uncommon but significant injury, particularly in racquet-sports players and weightlifters. The radial collateral ligament is crucial in stabilising the outer elbow. When it's torn, elbow stability is compromised, leading to pain and weakness. So how do you know you have a radial collateral [...]
While relatively uncommon, elbow stress fractures can significantly impact athletes and individuals involved in repetitive arm movements. The most common type is olecranon stress fracture. This blog discusses diagnosing and managing elbow stress fractures, emphasising olecranon stress fractures. What is a Stress Fracture? A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused [...]
Elbow plica syndrome is a relatively uncommon condition that can cause significant discomfort and functional limitations, particularly in individuals who engage in repetitive arm movements. This blog describes what elbow plica syndrome is, its symptoms, investigations, and management strategies. What is an Elbow Plica? The elbow joint is surrounded by a synovial membrane that [...]
Tennis elbow — extensor tendonitis of the elbow — is a common overuse injury in active people. But not all pain on the outside of the elbow and forearm is tennis elbow. One rare cause of lateral elbow and forearm pain is radial tunnel syndrome, also known as posterior interosseous nerve syndrome. So what [...]
Snapping elbow syndrome, also called snapping triceps syndrome, is a rare cause of elbow pain. Because it's uncommon, it's often misdiagnosed and treated incorrectly — and not all elbow snapping or popping is due to it. So what is snapping elbow syndrome, and what should you do about it? What is snapping elbow syndrome? [...]
