Elbow Injuries

Elbow injuries are common, especially for individuals engaged in repetitive arm movements or physically demanding activities. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury or an overuse injury, proper care is crucial to regain full function and prevent long-term issues.
At Paspa Physical Therapy in Manhattan, New York, we specialize in personalized, one-on-one care for all types of elbow injuries. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Common Elbow Injuries
Several types of injuries can affect the elbow joint. Here are some of the most common elbow injuries and their treatments:
- Fracture: A break in one of the bones that make up the elbow joint, often due to a fall or trauma. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or brace, and in severe cases, surgery may be required.
- Strain/Sprain: Strains involve overstretched or torn muscles or tendons, while sprains refer to ligament injuries. Both conditions are usually caused by overuse or sudden force. Treatment includes rest, physical therapy, and sometimes wearing elbow braces.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): This overuse injury affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow and is common in athletes who engage in repetitive arm movements, like tennis players. Physical therapy for elbow injury, including stretching and strengthening exercises, can help alleviate pain.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow, this condition affects the inside of the elbow and is often caused by repetitive stress from activities like golf or throwing. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and sometimes the use of elbow braces.
- Bicep Tendonitis: Inflammation of the biceps tendon, which attaches the biceps muscle to the elbow. Overuse injuries are a common cause. Rest, ice, and specific physical therapy techniques can relieve symptoms.
- Radial or Ulnar Fracture: These fractures occur in the forearm bones near the elbow joint. Treatment depends on the severity of the break, ranging from immobilization to surgery, followed by physical therapy.
Common Treatments for Elbow Injuries
Common treatments for elbow injuries include the following:
- The R.I.C.E. Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation): A standard initial treatment for many elbow injuries, especially those involving inflammation or swelling. The R.I.C.E. method is effective for managing pain and promoting early healing.
- Biceps Tendon Repair: A surgical procedure required when the biceps tendon is torn from the bone. Post-surgery physical therapy is essential to restore strength and flexibility.
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat joint and muscle problems. It is often used for persistent elbow issues and can help with recovery when paired with physical therapy.
- Immobilization: Immobilization using a sling, splint, or brace keeps the elbow still, allowing healing for injuries like fractures or severe sprains. It reduces swelling and prevents further damage. After immobilization, physical therapy helps restore movement and strength.
- PRP Injections: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections promote healing by using concentrated platelets from the patient’s blood. These injections are commonly used for chronic conditions like tennis elbow, offering a non-surgical option to reduce pain and boost recovery.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is essential for regaining elbow strength and flexibility. Therapists guide patients through exercises to improve range of motion and prevent re-injury, often incorporating additional pain-relief techniques like ultrasound.
How Does Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is a critical component in the recovery process for most elbow injuries. It focuses on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and strengthening the muscles around the elbow joint.
Paspa Physical Therapy offers a hands-on, individualized approach to rehabilitation. Each patient works directly with an experienced physical therapist who develops a personalized treatment plan designed to meet their specific needs and goals.
Physical therapy can help in various ways:

- Reducing Inflammation and Pain: Techniques such as massage and gentle stretching can reduce swelling and pain in the affected area.
- Restoring Mobility: A series of carefully designed exercises will help restore the full range of motion in the elbow joint.
- Strengthening Muscles: Strengthening exercises help rebuild the muscles surrounding the elbow, providing better support and preventing further injuries.
Physical Therapy Techniques for Elbow Injuries
There are several physical therapy techniques that can aid in the recovery from elbow injuries:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to mobilize the elbow joint and surrounding muscles, promoting better alignment and mobility.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: These exercises target the muscles and tendons around the elbow, helping to reduce pain and improve function. For example, patients with tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow benefit from gradual strengthening of the forearm muscles.
- Ultrasound Therapy: This technique uses sound waves to improve blood flow and promote healing in inflamed tissues.
- Elbow Braces: In cases of overuse injury, such as tennis elbow or biceps tendonitis, elbow braces may be used to provide support and alleviate pain during recovery.

Exercises for Elbow Injuries
Exercise plays a crucial role in the recovery from elbow injuries. Depending on your condition, your physical therapist will guide you through a series of exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Common strengthening exercises include:
- Wrist Flexor and Extensor Stretches: These help stretch the muscles of the forearm and relieve tension on the tendons connected to the elbow.
- Grip Strengthening: Using a softball or grip-strength device can improve forearm strength, reducing stress on the elbow joint.
- Eccentric Exercises: This type of exercise involves lengthening the muscle while it contracts, which is particularly useful for treating tendinitis and overuse injuries.
Get Back to Pain-Free Movement with Paspa Physical Therapy
If you’re dealing with elbow pain or a recent injury, physical therapy for elbow injury can help you recover quickly and effectively. At Paspa Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists will develop a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs.
With one-on-one care, a full gym, and private treatment rooms, we’re dedicated to providing a comfortable and effective recovery experience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to recovery!
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