The Causes and Symptoms of Elbow Pain and When to Seek Help

Do you feel sharp twinges of pain when you move your elbow? Elbow pain is a common issue that affects many people, and it can interfere with daily activities. Around 2-3% of adults report elbow pain, and approximately 5-10% of cases become chronic, lasting over six months. But what causes this pain, and when should you consider seeking professional help?

Your elbow facilitates various movements, from twisting and lifting to swinging and hugging, as you navigate daily tasks. However, this joint is fairly complex. Its three bones comprise the ulna and radius in the forearm and the upper arm bone (humerus). The cartilage on the ends of these bones allows for smooth movement and shock absorption while ligaments hold them together. Tendons connect the bones to muscles, enabling various arm motions.

When any of these components are compromised due to injury or wear and tear, it can result in discomfort and pain. At Orlando Orthopaedic Center, we understand the challenges of elbow pain. Here are some insights into the causes of elbow pain, including what symptoms to look for and when to call a doctor.

Various mechanisms can cause elbow pain, some of which are as follows:

One-time Injuries

Some injuries occur suddenly and unexpectedly, often due to a fall or a forceful impact during physical activities.

• A dislocated elbow occurs when one of the bones forming the elbow is forced out of its normal position. A common cause is extending the arm to break a fall. In toddlers, swinging them by their forearms can lead to a condition known as nursemaid’s elbow. If you suspect a dislocated elbow, seek medical attention promptly.
• Fractured elbow: A fracture happens when one of the bones in the arm breaks at the elbow. This injury typically occurs due to a sudden blow, such as those experienced in contact sports or car accidents. Even if you can still move your elbow after the injury, persistent pain and an abnormal appearance warrant medical evaluation.
• Strains and sprains result from overstretching or tearing muscles (strain) or ligaments (sprain). Strains often occur when excessive pressure is placed on the elbow muscles, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous sports. Elbow sprains are common among athletes involved in throwing, racquet, or contact sports. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and, once the pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.

Wear-and-Tear Injuries

Over time, repetitive actions can lead to various injuries in your elbow, whether from playing sports or engaging in daily tasks at work, ranging from factory work to office duties.

• Bursitis: Frequently stemming from repetitive movements, bursitis can also occur due to accidents or infections. Bursae, fluid-filled sacs in your joints, cushion bones, tendons, and muscles while facilitating smooth movement. However, inflammation of these sacs can lead to discomfort. Typically, bursitis is managed with pain medication and often improves within a few weeks.
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow: These conditions, classified as tendinopathy or tendinosis, result from overuse and subsequent damage to the tendons surrounding the elbow. Despite their names, these injuries aren’t exclusive to tennis players or golfers. However, the repetitive arm motions in these sports increase the likelihood of developing them. Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inside.
• Trapped nerves: Like carpal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to wrist and arm discomfort, nerve entrapment can occur in the elbow.
• Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, a primary nerve in the arm, becomes compressed as it passes through the cubital tunnel along the inner side of the elbow. Symptoms may include burning or numbness in the hand, arm, and fingers.
• Radial tunnel syndrome: In this condition, the radial nerve is compressed as it traverses the radial tunnel near the outer side of the elbow. Symptoms may manifest as burning or numbness in the outer forearm and elbow.
• Stress fractures: These small cracks in arm bones often result from overuse, more commonly observed in the lower legs and feet. However, athletes involved in throwing sports, such as baseball pitchers, can also develop stress fractures in the elbow. Pain typically worsens during throwing motions.

Diseases

Various medical conditions can also contribute to elbow pain, although it may not always be the primary symptom.

• Arthritis: Numerous arthritis types can impact the elbow, with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis being the most prevalent. Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the elbow joint, characterized by the immune system attacking healthy tissues, leading to joint inflammation. On the other hand, osteoarthritis develops as elbow cartilage deteriorates over time, resulting in bone-on-bone contact, causing discomfort and stiffness.
• Osteochondritis dissecans: This condition, predominantly observed in children and adolescents, involves the death of a bone fragment near the elbow. Subsequently, the bone fragment and some cartilage may detach, inducing pain during physical activities. While more common in the knees, it can also occur in the elbow.
• Gout: Classified as arthritis, gout occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the body’s tissues, leading to inflammation and intense pain. If these crystals accumulate in the elbow, it can cause significant discomfort.
• Lupus: An autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, including joints and organs. Although it commonly affects the hands and feet, lupus can also manifest symptoms in the elbow.
• Lyme disease: Lyme disease is transmitted through tick bites and can result in severe complications if not promptly treated. Joint pain, including elbow discomfort, may occur, along with issues in the nervous system.

If you suspect a fracture or dislocation of your elbow—experiencing intense pain and noticing an abnormal appearance—seek immediate medical attention.

Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Persistent elbow pain despite rest, icing, or pain that lingers even when your arm is unused.
• Severe pain accompanied by swelling and bruising around the elbow.
• Aggravated pain, swelling, or redness, particularly if you also have a fever.
• Difficulty bending your arm or performing regular elbow movements.

Next Steps for Elbow Pain

Is elbow pain disrupting your life? If you’re struggling with persistent discomfort or experiencing concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the Orlando Orthopaedic Center. Our experienced team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options to help you find relief. Your elbows will thank you!