Discomfort in the elbow joint, most commonly manifesting as tendonitis on the outside (Tennis Elbow) or the inside (Golfer’s Elbow) of the arm.
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Who Typically Suffers
Athletes (especially racquet sports and golfers), manual laborers (carpenters, painters), and desk workers who type intensely.
What Causes It
Usually caused by overuse and repetitive motions that strain the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the bones of the elbow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to play tennis to get Tennis Elbow?
No. Any repetitive gripping and wrist extension activity can cause the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes elbow pain?
Elbow pain can develop for several reasons, including repetitive gripping, tendon overload, sports, lifting, joint irritation, nerve compression, or trauma. The location of pain alone does not always identify the source. A focused history and examination can help distinguish a local joint or soft-tissue problem from referred pain, nerve involvement, or a condition that needs medical testing.
When should I seek care for elbow pain?
Schedule an evaluation when outer or inner elbow tenderness, pain with gripping, stiffness, weakness, or tingling persist, recur, limit sleep or daily activity, or follow an injury. Seek urgent medical attention for severe trauma, fever, unexplained weight loss, new weakness, loss of coordination, chest pain, or loss of bowel or bladder control.
How is elbow pain evaluated?
An evaluation typically includes questions about when symptoms began, activities that worsen or relieve them, prior injuries, and relevant medical history. The provider may assess mobility, strength, sensation, balance, posture, or movement patterns. Imaging or referral may be recommended when the examination suggests it is necessary.
What non-surgical treatments may help elbow pain?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include education, activity modification, chiropractic or manual care, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation, and medical treatments when appropriate. The plan should focus on reducing tendon load, restoring forearm mobility, improving strength, and modifying aggravating activities. No single treatment is right for every patient.
How long does improvement from elbow pain take?
Recovery time varies with the cause, severity, duration, overall health, work or activity demands, and consistency with the care plan. Some symptoms improve within a few visits, while long-standing conditions may require more time. Progress should be reassessed using pain, mobility, strength, and functional goals.
