I didn't develop accordion elbow, but developed an EXCEEDINGLY PAINFUL condition called Frozen Shoulder while learning to play. After numerous cortisone shots and 3 times a week physical therapy treatments that continued for almost a year, I FINALLY got some relief and the problem subsided.

While the frozen shoulder condition existed, I had to give up trying to play accordion ~ just too painful. As I feel that I am always "just on the brink" of having it recur, I made a decision to not tempt fate by playing accordion, so permanently gave up my dream of doing so. Good luck with your elbow!

I have a what some call a trick shoulder, I think from my early days of sports and motocross. I have become very aware of what I do with my left shoulder. I put the accordion on my right knee and don't extend the left arm as much as I would if I put the accordion on my left knee. I can tell the difference after playing on either knee. Right is better from my shoulder. I don't do much playing standing up.

What I wrote above should be right and left "leg" and not knee!! .. Ed

Thanks for all the replies about the elbow. I got a program from the trainer at my gym that avoids strain on that part (most bicep exercises are included). I'm going to consult a physio too. Friends whp play fiddle have told me about neck problems they've had too and how they approached it.