Elbow pain can occur for many different reasons. This can negatively affect daily life. The most common causes include problems such as “tennis or golfer’s elbow”, which develops as a result of overuse. These conditions cause pain on the outside or inside of the elbow as a result of repetitive movements. In addition, conditions such as elbow bursitis, arthritis, nerve compression can also cause elbow pain. Correct diagnosis and treatment are very important in restoring mobility and relieving pain.
Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar has a comprehensive approach to the treatment of elbow pain. Surgical intervention options are evaluated in cases such as elbow bursitis, nerve compression and arthritis. Thus, personalized treatment plans are created.
Table of Contents
- What are the Types of Elbow Pain?
- What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
- What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?
- What is Nerve Compression (Ulnar Nerve Compression)?
- What is Olecranon Bursitis?
- Common Causes of Elbow Pain
- Signs and Common Symptoms of Elbow Pain
- Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Types of Elbow Pain?
Elbow pain can occur in different ways depending on various causes. Tennis elbow develops on the outside of the elbow. It usually occurs as a result of repetitive hand and wrist movements. This condition is especially common in people who are involved in sports such as tennis. It causes pain and weakness in the elbow area. Medial epicondylitis is known as golfer’s elbow and occurs on the inside of the elbow. This condition develops as a result of activities such as heavy lifting or frequent use of the wrist. This causes tenderness and pain in the inner elbow. Another common problem is nerve compression. When the ulnar nerve is pinched, pain and numbness can be felt radiating from the elbow to the little finger of the hand. This can lead to reduced dexterity. In addition, olecranon bursitis occurs when the bursa behind the elbow becomes inflamed. It is also characterized by swelling, redness and pain. Although there are different causes of elbow pain, these conditions can be managed with the right treatment and prevention.
What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Tennis elbow is a condition caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons on the outside of the elbow. Generally, repetitive hand and wrist movements cause the muscles in this area to strain. This leads to the development of small tears. This condition is called “tennis elbow” because it is common among tennis players. However, it can occur not only in athletes but also in people who use hand and wrist movements intensively. Lateral epicondylitis is characterized by pain, tenderness and weakness in the outer part of the elbow. It can cause difficulty even in daily activities. Methods such as rest, physical therapy and surgical intervention can be applied in the treatment process.
What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?
The condition known as golfer’s elbow is caused by overstraining the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It is often caused by activities that require repeated bending movements of the wrist and fingers. Although it is named after its common occurrence among golf players, golfer’s elbow is not only seen in athletes. It is also a common problem in occupational groups such as carpenters and plumbers who use their wrists and elbows frequently. Pain, tenderness and sometimes a feeling of discomfort spreading to the wrist can be seen on the inside of the elbow. Treatment usually includes rest, ice application, physical therapy and in some cases corticosteroid injections.
What is Nerve Compression (Ulnar Nerve Compression)?
It is a condition caused by compression or compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow level. The ulnar nerve is the nerve that controls the little finger and part of the ring finger of the hand. It passes through a narrow channel as it passes through the elbow. This compression is manifested by numbness, tingling and numbness on the inside of the elbow, especially in the little and ring fingers of the hand. There may also be a decrease in grip strength and difficulty with fine motor skills. Ulnar nerve compression can develop as a result of holding the elbow in a bent position for a long time, repetitive elbow movements or constant strain on the elbow. Rest, splint use and physical therapy are generally preferred in treatment. Surgical intervention may be required in advanced cases.
What is Olecranon Bursitis?
What is Olecranon Bursitis?
Olecranon bursitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the olecranon bursa at the back of the elbow. The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac located between the skin and bone, which reduces friction during joint movements and provides a smooth transition. However, inflammation or fluid accumulation in the bursa causes swelling, redness and pain behind the elbow. Olecranon bursitis is usually caused by prolonged pressure on the elbow, repetitive movements, trauma or infections. In the treatment of the disease, methods such as rest, anti-inflammatory drugs and fluid withdrawal are usually applied. However, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Elbow pain can be caused by many factors. These are usually caused by strain on the muscle, tendon, nerve or bone structures in the elbow joint. One of the most common causes is tendon inflammation due to repetitive movements. Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) often occur as a result of activities with intense hand and wrist movements. In addition, nerve compression can also cause elbow pain. In particular, compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow level is characterized by pain, tingling and weakness in the hand and elbow. Olecranon bursitis develops as a result of inflammation of the bursa behind the elbow and is associated with prolonged leaning on the elbow or trauma. In addition, joint diseases such as arthritis can cause pain by wearing down the joint structures in the elbow. Traumatic injuries such as elbow dislocations, fractures or tendonitis can also cause pain in the elbow area. Whatever the cause of this pain, it is important to consult a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Signs and Common Symptoms of Elbow Pain
The symptoms of elbow pains can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, there are some common symptoms. Elbow pains usually starts with a feeling of mild discomfort and can develop into severe pains over time. Especially in cases of lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbows) or medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow), tenderness on the outside or inside of the elbows, pains and weakness during movement can be felt. These discomforts become more pronounced, especially during movements with the wrist and fingers. Ulnar nerve compression can cause tingling, numbness and numbness in the elbow, especially in the little finger and ring finger. Symptoms of olecranon bursitis include pains in the posterior part of the elbow with a marked swelling, redness and a feeling of warmth. Pains resulting from a traumatic injury may be accompanied by limitation of movement in the elbows joint, swelling and bruising. These symptoms accompanying elbow pains can make daily activities difficult. Therefore, without timely intervention, it can lead to more serious health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of elbow pain?
The most common causes of elbow pain include strains from conditions such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbows), medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbows), ulnar nerve compression and olecranon bursitis. Arthritis, trauma and injuries to the elbows joint can also cause pain.
How to treat elbow pain?
Treatment varies depending on the cause of the pain. Rest, ice application, physical therapy and painkillers are usually used in the first stage. In more serious cases, corticosteroid injections, surgical intervention in cases of pinched nerves and fluid drainage in cases such as bursitis may be required.
How can I relieve elbow pain at home?
Rest, avoiding overloading the elbows applying ice and supporting the elbows with an elastic bandage if necessary can help relieve the pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used. However, it is important to consult a doctor in case of persistent or severe pain.
What activities cause elbow pain?
Repetitive hand and wrist movements, sports activities (such as tennis, golf), weight lifting and staying in the same position for a long time can lead to elbow pains. Computer use, working with hand tools and frequent repetitive wrist movements are also risk factors.
When does elbow pain require a visit to the doctor?
If the elbow pains does not go away after a few days of rest, if it is severe and starts suddenly, if the elbows are swollen or reddened, or if numbness and weakness are felt in the hand and fingers, an orthopedic specialist should be consulted.
How can I prevent elbow pain?
To prevent elbow pains, it is important to avoid repetitive movements, work in appropriate ergonomic positions, do exercises that strengthen the muscles and avoid unnecessary pressure on the elbow. Also, doing the right warm-up and stretching can help protect the elbow when playing sports or doing heavy work.