The evaluation of an elbow sprain is usually based on a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with an elbow sprain may include:

• Limited range of motion in the elbow
• Elbow swelling
• Tenderness over the elbow:
• Over the sprained ligaments
• Over bone

Testing may be necessary to exclude other elbow injuries, such as an elbow fracture.

Tests that may be used to evaluate elbow sprain include:

• Elbow x-rays
• Elbow MRI scan
• Bone scanning
• Arthroscopy:
• Can be used to look inside the elbow joint and repair ligaments

For more information:

• Elbow bursitis evaluation
• Elbow contusion evaluation
• Elbow fracture evaluation
• Nursemaid's elbow evaluation
• Medial epicondylitis evaluation
• Lateral epicondylitis evaluation