What Can Elbow Pain Be Caused By?
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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The elbow is an extremely complex joint that is often injured during sports activities. In most cases, any pain and discomfort tend to improve with conservative treatment. However, in cases of severe injuries or long-term strain, surgery may be required to relieve pain and restore the range of motion of the upper limb.
Elbow Pain: What Are the Main Causes?
The causes of pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow vary. Among the most common causes are frequent strain on the elbow during daily and sports activities. It can also develop as a result of an injury, condition, or inflammation.
The most common causes of elbow pain are the following:
Medial or lateral epicondylitis
This is probably the most common cause of elbow pain. It develops as a result of tendinitis of the extensor muscles (lateral epicondylitis) or flexor muscles (medial epicondylitis) of the forearm. Mainly, like all tendinitis conditions, it is caused by excessive use of the forearm and its muscles, resulting in strain.
Muscle injury
It is caused by prolonged strain on the elbow. A muscle injury shares common features with epicondylitis but affects a larger number of muscle groups. Pain may often extend from the elbow along the forearm.
Tendon tears
They are usually caused by sudden and forceful muscle contraction. A tear occurs when the muscle undergoes excessive stretching, placing significant force on its tendons.
What Other Reasons Can Cause Pain on the Inner or Outer Side of the Elbow?
Sports activities that lead to upper limb strain (tennis, golf, basketball, volleyball)
Previous fractures and injuries that have not resolved over time
Instability, especially if there is a history of injury (elbow dislocation)
Osteoarthritis (more commonly as a result of a fracture – post-traumatic)
Autoimmune diseases
Ulnar neuritis (causes elbow pain and numbness in the little and ring fingers)
When Should We Visit an Orthopaedic Surgeon?
Elbow pain that persists and shows no signs of improvement should always be evaluated by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. Indicatively, some of the reasons that should lead us to seek medical advice immediately are:
Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
Pain that persists and does not improve with the use of anti-inflammatory medication
Difficulty with movement, where the elbow is swollen and numb
Constant worsening of pain
Failure to heal, meaning that rest and avoidance of activities that strain the elbow are insufficient
A feeling of the elbow locking
When we hear noises from the elbow (crepitus)
How Is the Appropriate Treatment Planned?
Treatment of an elbow injury is necessary for the safe return of the individual to their daily activities. The Orthopaedic Surgeon, after a complete clinical examination and medical history assessment, will determine the appropriate treatment plan. Further examinations are often required, such as an X-ray or MRI scan. In some cases, an electromyography test may also be needed when there is clinical suspicion of ulnar neuritis.
What Does Conservative Treatment for Elbow Pain Include?
Conservative treatment for managing elbow pain can easily be performed at home. The ideal treatment for each patient mainly depends on the nature and severity of their symptoms.
The first-line treatment includes:
Rest
Avoidance of all activities (sports and non-sports related) that strain the elbow (e.g. typing, driving a car or motorcycle)
Bandaging and appropriate joint support throughout the day
Taking painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Ice therapy
In cases of more severe injury, PRP treatment may be recommended, during which platelet-rich plasma is injected into the injured area. This is followed by an individualised physiotherapy programme.
When Is Surgical Treatment Recommended?
As previously mentioned, the first-line treatment is conservative, involving rest and medication. However, if conservative treatment fails after a reasonable period of time, or in cases where it is not sufficient, surgical management may be required. The experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the needs of each individual case, always recommending the appropriate form of treatment for the definitive management of pain and restoration of elbow function.
If you suffer from elbow pain, contact the specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou for personalised diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.