Elbow pain can be frustrating because it often interferes with everyday activities like lifting, typing, exercising, or even shaking hands. While a minor strain may resolve on its own, persistent or worsening elbow pain is not something to ignore. The elbow is a complex joint made up of bones, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, and problems in any of these structures can cause discomfort.
At Jonathan L. Glashow, MD Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, patients receive expert evaluation and personalized care for elbow pain caused by sports injuries, overuse, and degenerative conditions.
How Common Is Elbow Pain?
Elbow pain affects people of all ages and activity levels. Studies estimate that lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, affects 1–3% of the general population, making it one of the most frequent elbow conditions. Repetitive motion, occupational strain, and aging joints all contribute to the prevalence of elbow pain.
Because symptoms can overlap, identifying the specific cause is key to effective treatment.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive wrist and arm motions. Despite the name, it is most often caused by activities like typing, lifting, or manual labor rather than tennis.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the outer elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Pain when lifting or twisting the forearm
Early treatment often prevents the condition from becoming chronic.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. Like tennis elbow, it is caused by repetitive stress, but it involves different muscle groups.
Patients often experience:
- Inner elbow pain or tenderness
- Stiffness or weakness in the hand and wrist
- Pain that worsens with gripping or flexing
This condition is common among golfers, weightlifters, and people who perform repetitive hand motions at work.
Elbow Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis of the elbow occurs when cartilage within the joint wears down over time. While less common than arthritis in the knee or hip, elbow osteoarthritis can significantly limit motion and cause pain.
Symptoms may include:
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding or clicking sensations
Arthritis-related elbow pain is more common in individuals with a history of joint injury or heavy use.
Elbow Bursitis
Bursitis develops when the olecranon bursa, a small fluid-filled sac at the back of the elbow, becomes inflamed. This condition often causes visible swelling and tenderness.
Elbow bursitis may result from:
- Repetitive pressure on the elbow
- Trauma or falls
- Infection
In many cases, swelling is more noticeable than pain, but untreated bursitis can worsen or become infected.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed as it passes along the inner side of the elbow. This nerve compression can cause pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates into the forearm and hand.
Common signs include:
- Numbness in the ring and little fingers
- Elbow pain that worsens with bending
- Hand weakness or clumsiness
Nerve-related elbow pain often requires specialized evaluation to prevent long-term nerve damage.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Elbow pain that lasts more than a few weeks, worsens with activity, or interferes with daily life should be evaluated by a specialist. Ignoring symptoms can lead to prolonged recovery or permanent damage.
Jonathan L. Glashow, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and joint care. With offices in New York City and Miami Beach, Dr. Glashow offers advanced diagnostic tools and both non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s condition and lifestyle.
Expert Care for Lasting Relief
Elbow pain has many possible causes, and effective treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis. From overuse injuries like tennis or golfer’s elbow to arthritis, bursitis, and nerve compression, understanding the source of pain allows for targeted care and better outcomes.
If your elbow pain is limiting your activity or not improving, a professional evaluation can help you get back to comfort, strength, and function with confidence. Contact the office of Jonathan L. Glashow, MD, in NYC and Miami Beach to schedule an elbow evaluation.
