Athletic injuries of the elbow are common, especially in throwing sports such as baseball or tennis. The primary care team physician must be prepared to diagnose these injuries, initiate treatment, make appropriate referrals for surgical management, and ultimately decide when an athlete can safely return to competition.

Elbow disorders in the athlete can be due to muscle-tendon, bone, cartilage, or nerve injuries. These injuries can occur from acute trauma or chronic overuse of the joint. Inappropriate treatment or misdiagnosis can lead to further injury or a loss of elbow motion, which may affect an athlete's ability to compete.

This article deals with common disorders of the elbow encountered by the team physician. Etiology, pathophysiology, typical history, physical findings, differential diagnosis, treatment options, and timing for return to play for various disorders are discussed.