The elbow is a complex structure that consists of three separate joints, or articulations. One allows for the hinge-like opening and closing of the arm. The second permits one bone in the forearm, the radius, to rotate. The third articulation controls rotation of the second forearm bone, the ulna. Wrestling is a contact sport that can lead to a variety of injuries, including elbow problems. If you hurt an elbow while wrestling, have a medical professional examine it to rule out serious injury.
Overuse Injury
An active wrestler may be faced with a common overuse injury, olecranon bursitis. This is inflammation of the bursa that sits on the outside edge of the elbow. The wrestler will notice swelling on the elbow tip. The inflamed bursa will restrict the ability of the arm to fully extend. This condition is painless. If you feel tenderness in the elbow, this is not olecranon bursitis. Your doctor will need to take an X-ray of the elbow and treat the condition. Treatment may include rest and immobilization of the affected arm.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is inflammation of the supportive tendons in the elbow. This can occur from any wrestling movement. The injury can result from an opponent's action or even from the wrestler's own move. Treatment would include immobilization and rest. The wrestler should apply ice to the area immediately after the injury. Leave the ice in place for up to 20 minutes. Continue icing several times a day for the next three days. This will help with pain and decrease swelling. Your doctor may recommend a compression bandage to the joint for several weeks to avoid reinjury. Do not return to wrestling until the doctor gives you the OK.
Dislocation
Dislocation can occur as a wrestler is thrown onto the mat or may be the result of twisting an arm during a match. During a dislocation, the joint comes apart. In most cases, dislocation will be obvious. The arm will look separated or hang differently. Dislocations require medical treatment. The doctor will attempt to reduce the dislocation by maneuvering the bones back into place. The arm will require immobilization for several weeks. Surgery also is a possibility if there is damage to the supporting tissue. Once the arm heals and the split comes off, the wrestler will require rehabilitation to improve arm mobility.
Fracture
The arm has three bones, and fractures to any could affect the elbow. Fractures may or may not be obvious. Any injury to the arm should be evaluated to rule out a fracture. Treatment of a fracture will include immobilization and rest. A serious break may require surgery to repair. All fractures are emergencies and require medical treatment.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians; Evaluation of Overuse Elbow Injuries; Eric M. Chumbley, Capt., USAF, MC, Francis G. O'Connor, LTC, MC, USA, Robert P. Nirschl, M.D., M.S.; 2000
- Mayo Clinic; Elbow Pain; 2010
- Healthy Children; Wrestling; 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Tendinitis; 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Dislocation; Treatment and Drugs; 2010
