Elbow problems are conditions that cause pain, stiffness or weakness in the elbow joint, the best known being tendon irritation such as tennis elbow and golfer's elbow, as well as injuries and nerve compression. Most improve with non-surgical care, and surgery is sometimes considered.
Note: This is general information. Elbow pain after a fall, with a visible deformity or being unable to move the joint needs prompt assessment.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary with the problem, and the main ones include:
- Pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting or moving the wrist
- Stiffness and difficulty straightening or bending the elbow
- Swelling, or a feeling of locking or clicking inside the joint
- Numbness in the little and ring fingers
- Weak grip
Causes
Common causes include:
- Repeated use of the forearm and wrist in racquet sports, manual work and weightlifting
- Poor technique or unsuitable equipment
- Falling onto the hand or a direct blow to the elbow
- Inflammation of the bursa or the joint
- Compression of a nerve as it passes near the elbow
- Joint wear or loose fragments inside the joint
Diagnosis
The doctor asks about your activity, work and the nature of the pain, then examines elbow movement, strength, tender points and sensation. When needed an X-ray, MRI or ultrasound looks at tendons and cartilage, and sometimes a nerve test is added.
Finding the exact cause needs an in-person examination.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Most common elbow problems improve without surgery. Options include:
- Rest and avoiding the movement that causes pain
- Cold packs wrapped in a cloth
- A forearm strap or brace when your doctor recommends it
- Physiotherapy with stretching and strengthening
- Adjusting technique or equipment
- Local injections under medical supervision in some cases
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be considered when symptoms continue despite proper non-surgical care, or when there is a loose fragment, a tear, scarring in the joint or nerve compression. Some operations are done arthroscopically through small incisions, as explained in Elbow Arthroscopy. Treatment of peripheral nerves may also be needed.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery time varies from person to person and is set by the surgeon after assessment. Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical, the return is gradual.
- Calming pain and swelling
- Restoring elbow movement
- Strengthening the forearm and arm muscles
- Correcting technique or equipment
- A gradual return to activity or sport
When to see the doctor
See an orthopedic surgeon if you have:
- Elbow pain that persists or keeps returning
- Severe pain after a fall or a visible deformity
- Being unable to straighten or bend the elbow
- Numbness or weakness in the hand
- Swelling, redness or warmth around the joint
- A feeling of the joint locking