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Elbow Pain
Elbow Pain
Elbow pain is a common condition that affects individuals of all ages, often resulting from overuse, injury, or strain. The elbow joint, which connects the upper arm to the forearm, is crucial for various movements and activities, including lifting, gripping, and bending the arm.
Various factors, including tendinitis, fractures, and ligament injuries can cause pain in this area. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects daily activities and overall quality of life.


Symptoms
Elbow pain can present in various ways, depending on the underlying cause.
Pain or Tenderness
Localised pain around the elbow joint that may worsen with certain movements, such as lifting or bending the arm.
Swelling
Swelling around the elbow joint, often present with injuries or inflammatory conditions.
Stiffness
A limited range of motion in the elbow joint may occur, making it difficult to fully extend or bend the arm.
Weakness
Loss of strength in the forearm or grip, often associated with tendon tears or nerve compression.
Numbness or Tingling
If nerves in the elbow are compressed, you may feel numbness or tingling that radiates into the hand or fingers.
Causes
Elbow pain can result from various conditions and injuries.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to pain on the outside of the elbow.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow, but affecting the inside of the elbow due to repetitive wrist flexion.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve, causing pain and numbness in the hand and fingers.
- Fractures or Dislocations: Trauma to the elbow, such as falls, can result in fractures or dislocations.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the elbow joint.
- Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the elbow joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of elbow pain.
- Repetitive Movements: Engaging in activities that involve frequent elbow use, such as sports or certain occupations.
- Improper Technique: Using incorrect form during sports or heavy lifting can increase strain on the elbow.
- Age: Tendon elasticity decreases with age, making older adults more prone to tendon injuries.
Diagnosis
A thorough diagnosis is essential to determine the cause of elbow pain.
- Physical Examination: Initial assessment to check for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
- X-rays: Used to detect fractures, dislocations, or signs of arthritis.
- MRI or Ultrasound: To evaluate soft tissues, including tendons and ligaments, for tears or inflammation.
- Electromyography (EMG): Assesses nerve function to diagnose conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome.
Treatments Provided By Us
Surgical
Surgery may be necessary for more severe cases of elbow pain, especially when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when there is significant damage to the tendons, ligaments, or bones. Common surgical procedures include:
- Tendon Repair: Surgery may be needed to repair the damaged tendon in cases of severe tears. This can often be done arthroscopically, using small incisions and specialised instruments.
- Nerve Decompression Surgery: Surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve for conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome.
- Elbow Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery that allows the surgeon to view and repair joint damage through small incisions. This procedure can be used to treat conditions like tennis elbow or remove loose bodies from the joint.
- Joint Replacement: For advanced cases of arthritis that severely affect elbow function, joint replacement surgery may be an option.
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Non-Surgical
Most cases of elbow pain can be treated with non-surgical methods, especially if diagnosed early. Common non-surgical treatments include:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that aggravate the elbow can promote healing.
- Ice and Compression: Applying ice and using a compression wrap to reduce swelling and manage pain.
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Medications like ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation in cases of severe pain or chronic conditions.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises designed to improve flexibility and reduce pain in the affected muscles and tendons.
- Shock Wave Therapy: Uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected tendons.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: PRP injections promote healing by using the patient’s own blood components.
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Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is crucial for recovering strength and mobility after treatment or surgery.
- Physical Therapy: Customised exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the elbow and surrounding muscles.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Patients are encouraged to slowly reintroduce activities, avoiding strenuous movements until fully healed.
- Pain Management: Depending on the severity of the injury or surgery, pain management may include medication or ice therapy during recovery.
Complications
While many people recover fully from elbow injuries, complications can arise, mainly if the injury is severe or left untreated. Possible complications include:
- Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that may affect daily activities, even after rest.
- Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness in the elbow joint, which can restrict movement.
- Nerve Damage: In conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome, prolonged pressure on the nerves can cause permanent damage.
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, though this is rare with modern surgical techniques.
- Recurrent Injuries: Without proper treatment and rehabilitation, there is a risk of re-injury, especially in athletes or individuals who perform repetitive tasks.
Prevention Methods
To prevent elbow pain:
- Warm Up Before Physical Activity: Proper stretching and warm-up exercises can help prevent overuse injuries.
- Use Proper Technique: Proper form and technique can minimise strain on the elbow when playing sports or performing repetitive tasks.
- Strengthening Exercises: Regularly performing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow can help prevent injury.
When To See A Doctor
Seek medical advice if:
- Pain persists for more than a few weeks or interferes with daily activities.
- There is significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow.
- You experience numbness or tingling in the fingers, which could indicate nerve compression.
Doctors In-Charge
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon