My husband rides with a crew of about 6 buys... they're all 6 foot and taller (I'm 5' 4"). So.. the hills that are encountered are always a bit easier for them than me but I've learned what I need to do to get up them and keep up with the men. I've found that I have to count a cadence in my head to keep me pedaling and not falling over (ie, 1-2-3-1-2-3). It helps. Sounds weird, I know... but it keeps my breathing controlled and my feet from slowing down.

I hope your elbow is better. Those "eggs" always hurt so much.