Elbow pain
Experiencing elbow pain is common and can be due to several different conditions – ranging from overuse to inflammation of tendons or joints. Regardless of the cause, it's important to identify the problem early to prevent the pain from worsening or becoming chronic. Many who seek help for elbow pain often have monotonous work tasks or participate in sports with repetitive arm movements, such as tennis, golf, or weightlifting.
What can cause elbow pain?
Elbow pain is often caused by overuse or improper movement patterns. Two of the most common diagnoses are tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis). Both occur when muscle attachments in the elbow area become irritated or inflamed, usually after prolonged strain.
Other common causes can include elbow osteoarthritis, bursitis (inflammation of the bursa), nerve impingement affecting sensation and mobility, or even injuries from falls or blows. It is also possible for the pain to radiate from other parts of the body, such as the neck or shoulder, and be most noticeable in the elbow.
Common symptoms of elbow pain
The pain can manifest in several different ways. Many describe a dull ache on the outside or inside of the elbow that worsens with gripping or lifting. Sometimes it can also feel like a stinging, burning sensation or weakness in the forearm.
If you experience pain that worsens with repetitive movements or if you have difficulty lifting or rotating your forearm, it is often a sign that the tendon attachments are irritated. The pain may be mild at first but can become more pronounced over time, especially if the strain continues without rest or treatment.
Treatment for elbow pain
When treating elbow pain, it is important to reduce strain and allow the tissues to recover. A first step is to avoid movements that worsen the pain, such as lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive work tasks. Relief through ergonomic adjustments in daily life can be crucial for accelerating healing.
For acute symptoms, cold therapy can alleviate pain. Afterwards, you should begin gentle movement exercises, such as stretching forearm muscles or light exercises that do not trigger pain. As the pain subsides, you can gradually increase the load under the guidance of a physical therapist.
In some cases, pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs can provide temporary relief. Rehabilitation in the form of strength training and mobility exercises often provides the best long-term effect. It is also common to use a brace or support that relieves pressure on the muscle attachments and provides pain relief in daily life.
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Common questions about elbow pain
When should I seek medical attention for elbow pain?
If the pain persists for more than a couple of weeks or if you have difficulty using your arm normally, you should contact a physical therapist or doctor.
What is the difference between tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow involves pain on the outside of the elbow, while golfer's elbow is on the inside. Both are caused by overuse.
Can I continue to exercise with elbow pain?
Light exercises that do not provoke pain can be beneficial, but you should avoid movements that worsen the symptoms until the pain subsides.
Does elbow support help with pain?
Yes, a good support reduces the strain on irritated tendon attachments and often provides quick relief for conditions such as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow.
Related articles on rehcore.com
- Tennis elbow – symptoms and treatment
- Golfer's elbow – what it is and how to relieve the pain
- Forearm pain – causes and tips
