Understanding Elbow Pain and Elbow Injuries
6/5/2026
Elbow pain can significantly impact daily activities such as lifting, gripping, driving, and even resting comfortably. Whether caused by overuse, injury, or inflammation, elbow problems are common and often very treatable. At Lakeside Physicians, orthopedic surgeons Cody Hartshorn, M.D., and Corey Mark, M.D., diagnose and treat a wide range of elbow conditions to help patients regain strength and motion.
Bursitis
Elbow bursitis occurs when the fluid filled sac at the tip of the elbow becomes swollen or irritated. It may result from leaning on the elbow, minor trauma, infection, or repetitive pressure. Treatment may include rest, compression, ice, medication, or aspiration if needed.
Dislocation
An elbow dislocation happens when the joint is forced out of alignment, usually during a fall onto an outstretched hand. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to move the elbow. Treatment may involve repositioning the joint, bracing, physical therapy, or surgery for ligament damage.
Fracture
Elbow fractures can involve the humerus, ulna, or radius. They commonly present with sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bending or straightening the arm. Treatment ranges from immobilization to surgical repair depending on severity.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow and can occur from repetitive gripping or wrist flexion. Symptoms include inner elbow pain and reduced grip strength. Treatment includes rest, stretching, bracing, and physical therapy.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outer side of the elbow and is a common source of painful lifting and gripping. Treatment includes anti inflammatory medication, bracing, activity modification, and physical therapy.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis around the elbow results from repetitive motion or strain. Symptoms include pain with movement, tenderness, and stiffness. Treatment may involve rest, ice, stretching, and strengthening exercises.
When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon
Consider evaluation if elbow pain:
- Lasts more than a few weeks
- Interferes with lifting or gripping
- Limits elbow movement
- Causes weakness or popping sensations
- Follows a fall or injury
- Causes swelling or deformity
“Early diagnosis makes treatment much easier and helps prevent long term problems,” says Dr. Hartshorn. “Most elbow conditions respond well to conservative care.”
Dr. Mark adds, “Whether the cause is overuse or injury, our goal is to get patients back to normal activity with the least invasive approach.”
Dr. Cody Hartshorn and Dr. Corey Mark treat bursitis, dislocation, fractures, golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, tendinitis, and other elbow injuries.
To schedule an appointment, call Lakeside Physicians Orthopedics:at 817) 579-2020 or visit https://www.lakesidephysicians.com/orthopedic-surgery-care.
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