Elbow pain can appear suddenly after a strain or develop gradually from repetitive use. Whether you’re an athlete, office worker, or retiree, elbow discomfort can make even simple tasks—like lifting, gripping, or typing—difficult.
Understanding what causes elbow pain is the first step toward finding relief and preventing future injury.
Anatomy of the Elbow
The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by three bones: the humerus, radius, and ulna. Tendons, ligaments, and muscles work together to provide stability and motion. Because it’s used constantly, the joint is vulnerable to overuse, inflammation, and wear over time.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Overuse Injuries
Repetitive motion from work, sports, or hobbies can strain tendons and muscles.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Pain on the outside of the elbow due to overused forearm tendons.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain on the inside caused by repetitive gripping.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can both affect the elbow. Symptoms include stiffness, swelling, and loss of range of motion.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint—can cause visible swelling at the tip of the elbow, especially after leaning or pressure.
Fractures and Dislocations
Falls or direct trauma can break or dislocate elbow bones, requiring immediate medical attention and imaging.
Nerve Compression
The ulnar nerve runs through the “funny bone” area. Compression or irritation can cause tingling, numbness, or shooting pain down the forearm (cubital tunnel syndrome).
For more detailed information on these conditions, review the Mayo Clinic’s guide on Tennis Elbow Symptoms and Causes.
Preventing Elbow Pain
- Warm up before physical activity.
- Maintain proper posture when working at a desk.
- Strengthen surrounding muscles with targeted exercises.
- Use ergonomic equipment for repetitive tasks.
Rest and stretch frequently to avoid overuse.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Seek professional care if you experience:
- Persistent pain lasting longer than two weeks
- Swelling or warmth that doesn’t improve
- Weakness, numbness, or loss of grip strength
- Difficulty fully bending or straightening the elbow
An orthopedic evaluation may include X-rays, MRI, or nerve testing to identify the root cause and guide treatment. If you are ever unsure whether your arm pain is musculoskeletal or something more serious, refer to this Medical News Today article on arm pain.
Treatment Options
Depending on diagnosis and severity, your specialist may recommend:
- Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy for flexibility and strength
- Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Bracing or splinting for tendon protection
- Surgery for severe tears or structural issues
The principles of proper healing and early mobilization are covered in the NIH guide to Postoperative Rehabilitation in Elbow Surgery.
Expert Care at The Orthopedic Clinic
At The Orthopedic Clinic, our fellowship-trained Orthopedic Specialists treat everything from minor sprains to complex elbow injuries. We prioritize conservative, evidence-based treatments whenever possible and create personalized plans to help you regain comfort and function.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more about effective solutions for Elbow Pain Treatment and our Sports Medicine Program to get back to doing the activities you enjoy.