The elbow is a structurally complex joint that is used frequently and is susceptible to different types of injuries. Acute injuries can happen suddenly due to a sports injury, unexpected fall or accident. For example, microtrauma or overuse injuries can occur when the elbow joint is moved in a repetitive motion - such as performed by a baseball pitcher or quarterback. This overhead, repetitive motion can inflame tendons and irritate muscles. In addition, some autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause elbow pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced range of motion. Regardless of the cause, uncomfortable elbow symptoms should be evaluated as soon as possible by an Orthopedic doctor trained in conditions affecting this joint.
What Causes Elbow Pain?
Elbow pain can result from overuse, injuries such as sprains, strains, fractures, and dislocations, or medical issues. Health conditions including bursitis, golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, nerve compression, arthritis, gout, Lyme disease, and lupus can cause pain, swelling, redness, limited motion, and impaired elbow function.
Your elbow is a joint where three bones meet, connected by cartilage, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Damage or problems with any of these structures can cause pain and limited movement.
What Causes Elbow Pain without Injury?
Elbow pain can be debilitating and may stem from an underlying medical condition.
Bursitis is a medical condition that develops over time by repetitive motion or from an infection that penetrates the bursa. Bursas are small sacs containing fluid that help cushion tendons, muscles, and bones. Bursa also make it easier for skin to move smoothly over bones. However, if they become irritated, they can swell and cause pain.
Tennis elbow is another source of elbow pain. This can develop when the arm and elbow are moved in a sustained, repetitive motion such as swinging a tennis racket. This will affect the outside of the elbow. Likewise, Golfer's elbow affects the inside of the elbow.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a health condition similar to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The ulnar nerve is located in the arm and travels along the elbow through the cubital tunnel. If this nerve gets pinched, it can cause numbness in the hands and fingers much like Carpal Tunnel.
Radial Tunnel Syndrome is associated with the radial nerve as it passes through the radial tunnel near the outside of your elbow. If pinched, it can cause burning or numbness on the outside forearm and elbow.
Outside of an obvious elbow injury, these are just a few examples of underlying conditions that can cause pain in the elbow.
How Can I Relieve Elbow Pain?
If elbow pain is mild, it's a good suggestion to rest the elbow, minimize overuse or modify any activities that may exacerbate the pain. However, keeping an elbow completely immobile is difficult to do and there is benefit in keeping your elbow moving. Instead, try to use your shoulder and the muscles in your upper arm to relieve some of the strain on your elbow. Try not to bend or straighten your elbow all the way. Some over-the-counter pain relievers can help control pain. Ice is also beneficial since it can reduce swelling and pain.
When Should I See a Doctor for Elbow Pain?
Medical help should be sought anytime the elbow sustains an traumatic injury. For ongoing, undiagnosed elbow conditions that are painful and not responding to rest or ice therapy, it's a good ideal to schedule an appointment for an assessment. It's especially important to seek medical attention if there is increased pain, swelling, redness, a reduction in range of motion, or the ability to manage everyday activities. The elbow specialists at Texas Orthopedics will carefully evaluate any elbow condition and make an appropriate treatment recommendation.
Common elbow conditions and treatments:
- Arthritis
- Elbow Fractures
- Bicep Tendon Tear at Elbow
- Golfer's Elbow
- Tennis Elbow
- Pitcher's Elbow
- Elbow Spurs
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome
- Elbow Instability
- Elbow Bursitis
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Elbow Arthroscopy
Visit our patient education library to learn more about elbow problems and injuries.
