Elbow Pain

What causes elbow pain?

The elbow joint is a complicated structure that provides movement in the forearm. It’s a connecting point between the humerus (upper arm bone) and the radius and ulna (forearm bones). This joint enables various essential functions, including flexion and extension of the forearm.

Elbow pain can have many causes, including:

Osteochondritis dissecans

This condition causes the cartilage to move or detach from the joint, leading to bone-to-bone friction. 

Ulnar neuritis

Ulnar neuritis compresses the ulnar nerve in the arm, affecting sensation and function in the forearm and hand.

Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)

Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons inside the arm become strained, often due to sports involving repetitive gripping, flexing of the wrist, or forceful rotation.

Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

This condition is due to microtears in the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, often from repetitive gripping or wrist extension during activities like playing tennis, using hand tools, or participating in other repetitive arm motions.

Biceps rupture

The biceps connect the muscle to the forearm. When these tissues tear or separate, the resulting pain can limit arm movement.

What does elbow pain feel like?

Elbow pain doesn’t always feel the same for everyone; its sensations can vary widely. Common signs of elbow pain include:

• Burning
• Tingling
• Sharpness
• Dull ache
• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Throbbing
• Radiating pain

Sometimes, elbow pain worsens after certain activities, like working out, playing sports, or engaging in repetitive motions.

Who gets elbow pain?

Many factors can increase your risk of elbow pain, including:

• Sports
• Overuse or strain
• Increased age
• Certain medical conditions
• Prior injuries
• Poor ergonomics

Dr. Hamzavi works with you to assess these risk factors comprehensively and develop a personalized approach to manage and alleviate elbow pain.

What are the treatments for elbow pain?

Dr. Hamzavi takes a personalized approach to treating elbow pain that includes multiple treatments, such as:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Open surgery
• Physical therapy
• Orthobiologics
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Bone marrow aspirate concentrate
• Stem cells

A combination of treatments may be necessary to fully relieve your elbow pain and help you return to the activities you enjoy. 

Call Hammer Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine today or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.