Lateral Elbow Instability: Nonoperative, Operative, and Postoperative Management

he purpose of this article is to present a treatment approach that has been found to be effective in the early manage- ment of lateral elbow instability. Anatomy and joint mechanics re- lated to stability of the elbow are reviewed. Operative and nonoperative treatment is outlined followed by a description of an innovative paradigm for the rehabilitation of elbow instability. Progression of the rehabilitation program as the elbow achieves greater stability is discussed. The authors hope that therapists and surgeons will find this method beneficial in beginning early range of motion for the unstable elbow, thus minimizing joint stiff- ness while preserving stability at the elbow joint.