As a medical journalist, I often encounter conditions that remain under-recognized despite their long-term impact. One such issue is Throwing Elbow Pain, a condition increasingly seen among young athletes but rarely discussed outside sports medicine circles. To understand its clinical significance, I recently visited Opera Bone and Joint Clinic in Malleswaram, Bangalore, where I interviewed Dr. Ponnanna KM, an orthopedic specialist who regularly treats athletes and active individuals affected by repetitive elbow stress injuries.

Meeting Dr. Ponnanna KM: Qualifications and Clinical Background

Dr. Ponnanna KM medical training reflects a focused trajectory in orthopedic care. He holds an MBBS degree, followed by a Master’s in Orthopaedics, and has undergone advanced training in sports injuries, arthroscopy, and joint preservation techniques. Over the years, his practice has evolved to include a significant number of cases involving young athletes — particularly those engaged in throwing sports such as cricket, baseball, javelin, and tennis.

According to Dr. Ponnanna, Throwing Elbow Pain is not a single diagnosis but a spectrum of conditions affecting the ligaments, cartilage, and growth plates of the elbow. His clinical experience spans conservative management as well as surgical intervention when structural damage is identified. This breadth of exposure places him among clinicians often referred to as the Best Orthopedic Doctor in Bangalore in sports-related musculoskeletal care, though he remains cautious about labels, emphasizing outcomes over titles.

Inside Opera Bone and Joint Clinic: Environment and Expertise

Opera Bone and Joint Clinic is located in a quiet residential area of Malleswaram, away from the bustle of large hospital complexes. During my visit, the clinic appeared purpose-built for orthopedic evaluation — functional rather than decorative. Consultation rooms are equipped for physical examination, gait and movement assessment, and diagnostic review.

Dr. Ponnanna explained that while initial evaluation and follow-ups occur at Opera Bone and Joint Clinic, advanced imaging and surgical procedures are conducted at Sparsh Hospital, where he has access to operation theatres, rehabilitation support, and inpatient care. This dual-setup allows continuity of care, from diagnosis to recovery.

The clinic’s approach reflects what one would expect from an Orthopedic Surgeon in Bangalore focused on long-term joint health rather than quick symptomatic relief.

What Is Throwing Elbow Pain? A Clinical Explanation

Throwing Elbow Pain refers to pain and dysfunction caused by repetitive valgus stress on the elbow joint, particularly during overhead throwing motions. Dr. Ponnanna described it as a “silent threat” because early symptoms are often mild — stiffness, reduced throwing speed, or vague discomfort — and are frequently ignored by young athletes.

Over time, continued stress can lead to:

  • Ligament strain or tears (especially the ulnar collateral ligament)
  • Cartilage damage
  • Stress injuries to the growth plate in adolescents
  • Chronic instability of the elbow joint

Dr. Ponnanna emphasized that early identification is critical, as untreated Throwing Elbow Pain can shorten athletic careers or result in permanent joint damage.

Benefits and Risks of Treatment: A Balanced Perspective

Treatment for Throwing Elbow Pain depends on severity, age, and level of activity. Dr. Ponnanna outlined the benefits of early, structured treatment, which include pain relief, restoration of joint stability, and prevention of long-term degeneration.

Non-surgical management often involves:

  • Activity modification and rest
  • Physiotherapy focused on shoulder-elbow biomechanics
  • Strengthening and flexibility programs
  • Gradual return-to-play protocols

When surgery is indicated — typically in cases of ligament rupture or failed conservative treatment — the benefits include improved joint stability and potential return to sport. However, Dr. Ponnanna was clear about the risks, which may include stiffness, prolonged rehabilitation, or incomplete recovery of performance level.

This balanced risk-benefit discussion was a recurring theme during the interview, underscoring the importance of individualized treatment planning.

Approximate Cost Range

While exact costs vary, Dr. Ponnanna provided a general framework rather than specific figures. Evaluation and conservative treatment typically involve consultation fees, imaging, and physiotherapy sessions, which remain within a moderate range for orthopedic care in Bangalore.

Surgical intervention, when required, involves higher costs due to hospital stay, surgical equipment, and rehabilitation. Dr. Ponnanna stressed that cost should never be the primary driver of treatment decisions — timing and appropriateness of care matter far more in preserving joint function.

Precautions and Aftercare Advice Shared During the Interview

One of the most emphasized points during my conversation with Dr. Ponnanna was prevention and aftercare. Key advice included:

  • Avoiding year-round throwing without adequate rest periods
  • Ensuring proper throwing technique and coaching supervision
  • Adhering strictly to physiotherapy protocols after injury
  • Gradual return to sport rather than abrupt resumption

For post-treatment patients, regular follow-ups and strength assessments are critical. Dr. Ponnanna noted that many relapses occur not because treatment failed, but because athletes returned to full activity prematurely.

A Journalist’s Closing Reflection

As I left Opera Bone and Joint Clinic, it was evident that Throwing Elbow Pain is less about isolated injury and more about how young bodies are managed under performance pressure. The condition sits at the intersection of sports ambition, medical responsibility, and long-term joint health.

For athletes, parents, and coaches alike, the takeaway is not fear, but awareness — recognizing early warning signs and seeking timely orthopedic evaluation can make a meaningful difference.

Contact Dr. Ponnanna KM – Scheduling & Locations

Opera Bone and Joint Clinic 14 Ground Floor, 4th Main, 6th Cross Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003

 Sparsh Hospital 4/1, Tumkur Rd, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area, Phase 1, Yeswanthpur, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560022

Tel: 8951545276

Mail: dr.ponnanna@gmail.com

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