Did you know that nearly 10% of people experience elbow pain at some point in their lives? Whether it’s due to overuse, injury, or an underlying condition, elbow discomfort can disrupt daily life and limit mobility. Understanding the root causes and available solutions is key to finding relief.
Dr. Brian Kelly, a highly experienced orthopaedic shoulder specialist and sports medicine surgeon based in PA, provides expert elbow pain treatment tailored to your needs. He specializes in procedures like ligament reconstruction, elbow arthroscopy, and comprehensive care for fractures, rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, and more. His goal is to help relieve pain and restore your mobility, so you can get back to doing what you love.
Don’t let elbow pain hold you back. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Kelly and take the first step toward recovery and living pain-free.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Overuse of the forearm muscles can lead to inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow, causing tennis elbow. This condition is common among individuals who perform repetitive arm motions, like tennis players or manual laborers. If left untreated, scar tissue may develop, potentially prolonging recovery.
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow is caused by repetitive wrist or hand motions but affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. While often associated with golfers, it can occur in anyone whose activities strain this area, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.
3. Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)
Elbow bursitis happens when the bursa, a fluid-filled sac near the elbow joint, becomes inflamed. Prolonged pressure on the elbow, trauma, or even infection can trigger this condition, causing swelling and pain.
4. Arthritis
Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint degeneration in the elbow, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. Elbow injuries from past trauma or autoimmune conditions can increase the likelihood of arthritis over time.
5. Fractures and Dislocations
A fall or direct impact can result in elbow fractures or dislocations, which are serious injuries that require immediate medical attention. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the formation of scar tissue and long-term complications.
6. Nerve Compression (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)
Compression of the ulnar nerve in the elbow can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness radiating into the forearm and hand. Repetitive bending or prolonged pressure on the elbow are common culprits behind this condition.
Diagnosing Elbow Pain
Orthopaedic specialists diagnose elbow issues by starting with a detailed physical examination. They assess the elbow's range of motion, look for swelling, tenderness, or deformities, and evaluate the joint's strength and stability. A thorough patient history is also essential, as it provides insight into past injuries, lifestyle factors, or symptoms that may be contributing to the problem. To diagnose tennis elbow or other conditions, imaging tests like X-rays are often used to detect fractures or bone abnormalities. For issues involving the soft tissues surrounding the joint, MRIs or ultrasounds may be recommended to identify ligament tears or nerve problems. These steps ensure an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Elbow Pain
1. Conservative Treatment Options
Managing tennis elbow often starts with simple, non-invasive methods. Resting the joint to prevent further strain, applying ice to reduce pain and swelling, and engaging in physical therapy with targeted exercises to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility around the elbow are key steps to treat tennis elbow effectively.
2. Medication
Medications can play a crucial role in controlling pain and inflammation. Over-the-counter options like NSAIDs are commonly recommended, while corticosteroid injections might be considered for more severe or persistent cases to provide localized, rapid relief.
3. Preventive Measures
Preventing tennis elbow from recurring involves adopting healthy habits. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises help improve muscle balance and joint stability, while making ergonomic adjustments—such as modifying your workspace or using supportive tools—can minimize repetitive strain on the elbow.
4. Long-Term Maintenance
Maintaining joint health over time requires consistent care. Incorporating these preventive strategies into your routine helps reduce the risk of future problems and keeps the elbow functional. In cases where conservative treatments don’t provide relief, tennis elbow surgery may become a necessary option to address chronic or severe symptoms.
When Surgery Might Be Necessary
Surgery may be necessary in the following cases:
1. Severe Tendon Damage
If the tendons in the elbow are significantly torn or damaged and nonsurgical options like physical therapy or pain medication fail to help, surgical repair might be required to restore function and alleviate pain.
2. Chronic Pain Unresponsive to Treatment
When pain persists despite months of conservative treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, or injections, surgery may be the next step to improve the condition.
3. Recurrent Joint Instability
Repeated episodes of joint instability or dislocations caused by ligament damage often require surgery to stabilize the elbow and prevent further issues.
4. Elbow Fractures That Do Not Heal Properly
Surgery may be necessary for fractures that are displaced, complex, or fail to heal with casting or bracing, as it can help realign and fix the bone.
5. Advanced Arthritis or Degenerative Conditions
Severe arthritis or joint degeneration that limits mobility and causes significant discomfort may lead to surgical options like joint replacement to improve quality of life.
6. Entrapment of Nerves
Nerve compression issues, such as cubital tunnel syndrome, may need surgical intervention to release pressure on the nerves and address symptoms.
Even common conditions like tennis elbow affect people differently, and while most cases improve with pain medication and noninvasive treatments, surgery may be necessary for severe or unresponsive symptoms.
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
Seeking professional medical care is crucial when elbow pain or discomfort starts interfering with daily activities or doesn’t improve with rest and home remedies. Key signs that it’s time to consult an orthopedic specialist include:
- Pain that persists for several days or worsens over time.
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow that doesn’t go away.
- Difficulty bending or straightening the arm due to a reduced range of motion.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers, which could indicate nerve issues.
- Popping or cracking sounds accompanied by pain during movement.
- Visible deformities or misalignment of the elbow after an injury.
Addressing these symptoms early not only helps with effective treatment but can also prevent joint stiffness and other complications.
Regain Control Over Your Elbow Pain Today
Ignoring elbow pain can disrupt your daily life and limit your ability to stay active, but addressing it early is key to recovery and long-term relief. Dr. Brian Kelly specializes in diagnosing and treating elbow pain to help you get back to doing what you love.
Don’t wait—schedule an appointment with us. Our expert care and tailored treatment plans are here to provide the relief you need. Contact us today!
