Elbow pain can significantly affect your daily activities, from simple tasks like lifting objects to engaging in sports or hobbies. Understanding the underlying cause of your elbow pain is essential for effective treatment and relief. At Jonathan L. Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a range of elbow conditions. Here, we explore some of the top causes of elbow pain to help you better understand your symptoms and options for treatment.
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is a common condition that affects the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, you don’t have to play tennis to develop this condition. It is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outside of the elbow.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow
- Pain that worsens with activities involving the wrist and forearm, such as gripping or lifting
- Weakness in the forearm
Treatment:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- In severe cases, surgery may be necessary
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow is similar to tennis elbow but affects the inner part of the elbow. It is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons that control wrist and finger movements, leading to inflammation of the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle, a bony bump on the inside of the elbow.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow
- Pain that worsens with activities involving wrist flexion and forearm pronation, such as swinging a golf club or lifting objects
- Stiffness in the elbow
Treatment:
- Rest and avoidance of aggravating activities
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Surgery in severe or unresponsive cases
3. Bursitis
Elbow bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the elbow joint, becomes inflamed. This can result from trauma, prolonged pressure on the elbow, or infection.
Symptoms:
- Swelling around the elbow
- Pain and tenderness
- Redness and warmth if the bursa is infected
Treatment:
- Rest and avoidance of pressure on the elbow
- Ice application to reduce swelling
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Aspiration of the bursa fluid if there is significant swelling
- Antibiotics if an infection is present
4. Elbow Arthritis
Arthritis in the elbow can result from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. It leads to the wearing down of the cartilage that covers the elbow joint, causing pain and stiffness.
Symptoms:
- Persistent elbow pain
- Swelling and tenderness
- Reduced range of motion
- A feeling of grinding or locking in the elbow
Treatment:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- Joint aspiration
- In advanced cases, surgical options such as arthroscopy or joint replacement
5. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow, becomes compressed or irritated. This condition is often referred to as “funny bone” syndrome.
Symptoms:
- Numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers
- Pain on the inner side of the elbow
- Weakness in the hand and fingers
Treatment:
- Avoiding activities that aggravate the condition
- Splinting the elbow to prevent excessive bending
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Nerve gliding exercises
- Surgery to relieve nerve compression in severe cases
Elbow pain can arise from various conditions, each with distinct causes and symptoms. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective relief and recovery. At Jonathan L. Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, we are dedicated to providing expert care for elbow pain and related conditions. If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our NYC clinic and begin your journey toward recovery.
