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Contents
  • Lateral Elbow Pain
  • Medial Elbow Pain
  • Elbow Swelling and Motion Issues

What's Causing Your Elbow Pain?

What's Causing Your Elbow Pain?

The Big Picture

Elbow pain can disrupt daily life, but understanding its causes is key to finding relief. Let's explore the common culprits behind this discomfort.
Contents
  • Lateral Elbow Pain
  • Medial Elbow Pain
  • Elbow Swelling and Motion Issues

Lateral Elbow Pain

Lateral elbow pain, often known as tennis elbow, is the most common type of elbow pain. It originates from the lateral epicondyle and the common extensor tendon, and it can be aggravated by activities that strain the wrist extensors. Pain in this area may also come from the radiohumeral joint or be referred from the shoulder or neck.

Medial Elbow Pain

Medial elbow pain, also known as golfer's elbow, is the second most frequent elbow complaint. The pain often stems from the medial epicondyle or the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel. Activities that strain the wrist flexors and pronators can worsen the pain, and symptoms may radiate into the ulnar side of the hand.
Elbow pain can be caused by various conditions, commonly including lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow). Symptoms may involve discomfort in the elbow joint, often linked to strain in the wrist extensors or flexors.

Elbow Swelling and Motion Issues

Swelling around the elbow often indicates olecranon bursitis, but it can also suggest more serious conditions like gout or infection. Motion issues may indicate an intra-articular process, with symptoms including difficulty straightening the elbow. This can be due to synovitis from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

FAQs

What is the most common cause of lateral elbow pain?

Tennis elbow is the most common cause.

What activities worsen medial elbow pain?

Activities that strain wrist flexors worsen the pain.

What does elbow swelling typically indicate?

It often indicates olecranon bursitis.

What is a key symptom of synovitis?

Difficulty straightening the elbow is a key symptom.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the type and source of elbow pain is crucial for effective treatment.
Talk to Doctronic to explore your elbow pain and find relief options today.
Additional References
  1. Gunn CC, Milbrandt WE. Tennis elbow and the cervical spine. Can Med Assoc J 1976; 114:803.
  2. Zwerus EL, Somford MP, Maissan F, et al. Physical examination of the elbow, what is the evidence? A systematic literature review. Br J Sports Med 2018; 52:1253.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.