Understanding Common Elbow Conditions – And How Yorkshire Shoulder Can Help
The elbow is one of the most important joints in the body, playing a key role in virtually every upper limb movement—from lifting and throwing to writing and typing. When elbow problems occur, they can significantly impact your daily life, work, or sporting activities. At Yorkshire Shoulder, our team of leading specialists is here to diagnose, treat, and guide your recovery with expert, evidence-based care.
In this blog, we explore some of the most common elbow conditions and how our consultants can help restore comfort, strength, and movement.
Common Elbow Conditions We Treat
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite the name, this condition doesn't just affect tennis players. Tennis elbow is caused by overuse or strain of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to pain on the outside of the elbow. It's common in manual workers, desk-based jobs, and people who play racquet sports.
Symptoms:
- Pain or burning on the outer elbow
- Weakened grip strength
- Discomfort when lifting or gripping
Treatment Options:
We offer a full range of treatments, from physiotherapy and steroid injections to minimally invasive surgical options if needed.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow, this condition affects the inside of the elbow. It’s typically caused by repetitive stress or improper technique during activities involving gripping or wrist flexion.
Symptoms:
- Pain on the inner side of the elbow
- Stiffness or weakness in the wrist and hand
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers (in some cases)
Treatment Options:
Our consultants use tailored rehabilitation plans, ultrasound-guided injections, and, when necessary, surgical procedures to relieve symptoms and restore function.
- Elbow Arthritis
Elbow arthritis can develop due to wear and tear (osteoarthritis), autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or following trauma. It often causes joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Symptoms:
- Persistent pain and swelling
- Grinding or locking sensations
- Difficulty straightening or bending the elbow
Treatment Options:
Depending on severity, we offer non-surgical management, keyhole procedures (arthroscopy), and joint replacement surgery for advanced cases.
- Elbow Instability
This occurs when the elbow feels like it might "give way," often due to ligament damage from trauma or repetitive strain—especially in athletes involved in throwing sports.
Symptoms:
- Clicking or locking
- Feeling of instability
- Pain during motion
Treatment Options:
We specialise in stabilisation techniques, both arthroscopic and open, to restore joint integrity and prevent further damage.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
This condition involves compression of the ulnar nerve (the "funny bone" nerve) at the elbow, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
Symptoms:
- Tingling in the ring and little fingers
- Weak grip strength
- Elbow pain, especially when bent
Treatment Options:
We offer diagnostic nerve testing, activity modification advice, splinting, and nerve decompression surgery where appropriate.
How Yorkshire Shoulder Can Help
At Yorkshire Shoulder, our three leading consultants—Mr Simon Boyle, Mr Charlie Talbot, and Mr Neil Pennington—bring decades of experience in diagnosing and treating complex elbow problems.
Advanced Diagnosis & Imaging
We work closely with imaging specialists and physiotherapists to offer comprehensive assessments and accurate diagnoses using ultrasound, MRI, and nerve conduction studies.
Tailored Treatment Plans
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our consultants work closely with you to understand your goals—whether it’s returning to sport, work, or day-to-day life—and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Where surgery is required, we specialise in arthroscopic (keyhole) procedures to reduce recovery time, minimise scarring, and optimise outcomes.
Convenient Locations Across Yorkshire
Our specialists are based in York, Leeds, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Halifax, and Elland, offering both NHS and private appointments.
Ready to Find Relief?
Whether your elbow pain is recent or long-standing, we’re here to help.
To book an appointment or speak to our team, call Nikki (Secretary to Mr Simon Boyle) on 07864 374304
Visit us at one of our convenient locations across Yorkshire
Yorkshire Shoulder – Specialist Care for Shoulder & Elbow Conditions