Elbow Pain Treatment in Seoul Care in English
From tennis elbow to fractures and pinched nerves, our orthopedic surgeons in Gangnam diagnose and treat elbow problems, starting with the simplest effective option.
Gangnam Nanoori Hospital, at 731 Eonju-ro near Hakdong Station (Line 7, Exit 10), has an orthopedic Joint Center that treats tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, tendonitis, elbow fractures and cubital tunnel syndrome. Care usually starts with an exam and imaging, then physical therapy or image-guided injections, with arthroscopy or fixation surgery when needed. English-speaking coordinators help you book by WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796.
Common elbow problems we treat
Your elbow is a hinge joint where three bones, several tendons and three major nerves meet. Pain can come from overuse, injury or a nerve being squeezed. Many cases settle without surgery when treated early. If your pain started after a sports injury, our Sports Medicine team works alongside the Elbow Center.
Tennis elbow
Pain on the outer elbow from overloaded forearm tendons, often from gripping, typing, racket sports or manual work.
Golfer's elbow and tendonitis
Pain on the inner elbow, or in the triceps or biceps tendons, usually linked to repetitive strain.
Elbow fractures
Breaks after a fall or accident. Some heal in a cast or splint; displaced fractures may need plates and screws.
Cubital tunnel syndrome
Pressure on the ulnar nerve causing tingling in the ring and little fingers and weaker grip.
Elbow stiffness and arthritis
Loss of motion or grinding after old injuries or wear, sometimes with loose fragments inside the joint.
Sports and ligament injuries
Sprains and ligament strain from throwing, lifting or falls, assessed with a hands-on exam and imaging.
Explore elbow conditions and treatments
Each page explains symptoms, how the problem is diagnosed and the full range of treatment options at Nanoori.
Tennis elbow
Outer elbow pain from lateral epicondylitis, and how rest, therapy and injections help.
Read more →Elbow tendonitis
Golfer's elbow, triceps and biceps tendinopathy and other overuse problems.
Read more →Elbow fracture fixation
When a broken elbow needs surgery, how plates and screws work, and recovery.
Read more →Cubital tunnel syndrome
Ulnar nerve compression causing finger numbness, and when nerve release is considered.
Read more →How we treat elbow pain, step by step
We start with the least invasive option that fits your diagnosis and move up only if you are not improving.
Exam and imaging
Your surgeon examines strength, motion and nerve function. X-ray, ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the cause.
Activity changes and bracing
Adjusting grip, workload and sport technique, sometimes with a strap, brace or night splint, lets irritated tissue settle.
Physical therapy
Dedicated therapists guide stretching and progressive strengthening, which is often the core of recovery for tendon problems.
Image-guided injections
For stubborn pain, ultrasound-guided injections can be placed precisely. Your doctor will explain benefits and limits.
Surgery when needed
Elbow arthroscopy, tendon repair, nerve release or fracture fixation may be recommended when other options fail or the injury requires it.
Fixing a displaced elbow fracture
When broken bone pieces shift out of place, they may not heal in the right position. Surgery can line them up and hold them steady.
Simplified medical illustration for education only, not a patient image. Results vary by condition and individual; your specialist will explain what to expect for your case.
Matching your symptoms to a likely cause
This is a rough guide only. A proper exam is needed to confirm a diagnosis.
| What you notice | Possible cause |
|---|---|
| Pain on the outer elbow when gripping or lifting | Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) |
| Pain on the inner elbow when gripping or throwing | Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) |
| Pain at the back or front of the elbow with pushing or lifting | Triceps or biceps tendinopathy |
| Tingling in the ring and little fingers | Cubital tunnel syndrome |
| Swelling, deformity or inability to move after a fall | Possible fracture or dislocation |
Sudden severe pain, deformity or numbness after an injury needs prompt assessment.
Your Specialists
Care at this clinic is provided by Nanoori Joint Center orthopedic surgeons. Tap a doctor to see their full profile.
Common Questions
Do I need surgery for elbow pain?
Most elbow pain, especially tennis elbow and tendonitis, improves with activity changes, physical therapy and time. Surgery is usually reserved for displaced fractures, persistent nerve compression or symptoms that do not improve after several months of good conservative care.
Which tests will I need?
Many elbow problems can be diagnosed with a careful exam and X-rays. Ultrasound or MRI may be added to look at tendons, ligaments or cartilage, and nerve tests may be used if a pinched nerve is suspected.
I am a tourist. Can I be seen during a short stay?
Yes, you can arrange a consultation through our English-speaking coordinators. They can explain what can realistically be done during your visit and provide records and imaging to take home for follow-up.
Does Nanoori accept my insurance?
Foreign residents enrolled in Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) can use it here. If you have international health insurance, our coordinators can explain the billing documents you will receive so you can file a claim. Coverage depends on your insurer.
How long does elbow recovery take?
It depends on the problem. Tendon conditions often improve over weeks to months with therapy, while fractures usually need several weeks to heal followed by rehabilitation to regain motion and strength.
What should I do after a bad elbow injury?
If your elbow looks deformed, is very swollen, or your hand is numb, cold or pale, seek urgent care. In a life-threatening emergency in Korea, call 119. For other concerns, contact our team to book.
Talk to an elbow specialist in English
Message our international coordinators on WhatsApp at +82-10-6290-9796 to book a consultation in Gangnam.
Related Care
Last updated October 2026. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Contact us · Gangnam Nanoori Hospital home
