Tennis Elbow and Baseball Elbow Treatment in Hilo, HI
Elbow pain can make it difficult to grip, lift, throw, or even hold a cup of coffee. At Peter A. Matsuura, MD., Dr. Peter A. Matsuura diagnoses and treats tennis elbow and baseball elbow in Hilo, HI for athletes, workers, and weekend warriors alike. Most patients improve with conservative care, and surgical options are available when pain persists.
Understanding Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse condition that affects the tendons attaching to the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, it is not limited to tennis players. Repetitive gripping and wrist motions from activities such as painting, carpentry, gardening, typing, and using tools can all lead to tennis elbow. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow and weak grip strength.
Understanding Baseball Elbow
Baseball elbow refers to throwing-related injuries on the inside of the elbow. Repeated throwing places stress on the inner elbow, which can lead to inflammation, ligament strain or tears such as injuries to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), and, in young athletes, stress on the growth plate. Pitchers and other overhead athletes are most commonly affected. Our pediatric orthopaedic care addresses these injuries in youth players.
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Rest from the activity causing symptoms
- Ice and anti-inflammatory measures
- A counterforce strap or brace
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Improving technique, equipment, and throwing mechanics
- Injections in select cases
Surgical Treatment
If pain continues after several months of conservative care, or if a ligament is significantly torn, surgery may be recommended. Depending on the diagnosis, surgery may involve removing damaged tendon tissue, tendon repair, or ligament repair or reconstruction. Dr. Matsuura performs open and arthroscopic surgery of the elbow and will explain the approach best suited to your injury.
Watch our elbow education video:
We also treat cubital tunnel syndrome and elbow bursitis. Call (808) 969-3331 to schedule an evaluation or explore our orthopaedic services.
Tennis and Baseball Elbow FAQs
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive gripping and wrist motions that overload the tendons on the outside of the elbow.
Can I get tennis elbow if I do not play tennis?
Yes. Most people with tennis elbow develop it from work, hobbies, or household activities involving repetitive arm motions.
What is baseball elbow?
Baseball elbow refers to throwing-related injuries on the inside of the elbow, including tendon inflammation, ligament injuries, and growth plate stress in young athletes.
How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
Many cases improve with conservative care over several weeks to months.
Do elbow straps help?
A counterforce strap can help reduce stress on the injured tendons and relieve pain during activity.
When is surgery needed for elbow pain?
Surgery may be considered if symptoms continue after several months of conservative care or if a ligament is significantly torn.
Can young pitchers prevent baseball elbow?
Following pitch count guidelines, allowing adequate rest, and using proper throwing mechanics can help reduce the risk.