Elbow pain can result from various conditions, including tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis, and fractures, affecting your ability to perform daily activities. In India, elbow-related issues are common among individuals engaged in repetitive arm movements, such as athletes, labourers, and office workers. Elbow problems can significantly impact your quality of life, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty moving your elbow, it is essential to see a doctor promptly. Our dedicated team of orthopaedic specialists is committed to providing comprehensive care, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans to help you achieve optimal elbow health and function.

Elbow pain and problems can arise from a variety of causes, often related to overuse, injury, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding these potential causes is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

1. Overuse and Repetitive Motion: One of the most common causes of elbow pain is overuse or repetitive motion. Conditions such as Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) and Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) are typical examples. These conditions occur when the tendons around the elbow joint become inflamed due to repetitive stress, often from activities that involve repetitive wrist and arm motions, such as playing tennis, golf, or even frequent use of hand tools. This repetitive strain can lead to microtears in the tendon fibres, causing pain and tenderness around the elbow.

2. Injuries: Acute injuries are another major cause of elbow pain. These can include fractures, dislocations, and sprains resulting from direct trauma, falls, or accidents. For instance, a fall onto an outstretched hand can lead to a fracture of the radial head or olecranon. Dislocations, where the bones of the elbow are forced out of their normal alignment, are also a common injury. Such injuries can cause immediate pain, swelling, and an inability to move the elbow normally.

3. Inflammatory Conditions: Inflammatory conditions such as bursitis and tendinitis can also cause elbow pain. Olecranon bursitis is inflammation of the bursa (a small sac filled with fluid that cushions the bones and tendons) at the tip of the elbow, often resulting from prolonged pressure, infection, or trauma. Tendinitis, the inflammation of the tendons, can occur due to repetitive activities or acute injury, leading to pain and restricted movement.

4. Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis can affect the elbow joint, causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to pain and decreased range of motion. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, can cause the immune system to attack the lining of the joints, including the elbow, resulting in inflammation, pain, and swelling. Gout, a form of arthritis characterised by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, can also lead to severe elbow pain and swelling.

5. Nerve Compression: Nerve compression syndromes can cause elbow pain, with Cubital Tunnel Syndrome being a prominent example. This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the elbow, forearm, and fingers. Radial Tunnel Syndrome, where the radial nerve is compressed, can also lead to similar symptoms.

6. Other Medical Conditions: Other medical conditions, such as infections or tumours, though less common, can also lead to elbow pain. Infections can spread to the elbow joint or surrounding tissues, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Tumours, whether benign or malignant, can put pressure on the structures around the elbow, leading to discomfort and pain.

Elbow pain and problems can manifest through a variety of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Recognizing these symptoms early can facilitate timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Here are some common symptoms associated with elbow pain and problems:

1. Pain and Tenderness: Persistent pain is a primary symptom, which may be localised to the outer (lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow) or inner (medial epicondylitis or golfer’s elbow) part of the elbow. The pain can be sharp or dull and often worsens with specific movements or activities.

2. Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling around the elbow joint is common, especially in conditions like bursitis or arthritis. The affected area may feel warm and tender to the touch, indicating inflammation.

3. Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion: Elbow problems can lead to stiffness, making it difficult to fully extend or flex the arm. This can hinder daily activities and reduce overall arm functionality.

4. Weakness: Muscle weakness around the elbow can occur, particularly in cases of tendonitis or nerve compression. This can make it challenging to grip objects firmly or perform tasks that require arm strength.

5. Numbness and Tingling: Conditions such as cubital tunnel syndrome, where the ulnar nerve is compressed, can cause numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers, extending into the forearm. This sensation may worsen with prolonged elbow flexion.

6. Clicking or Locking Sensation: Some individuals may experience a clicking or locking sensation in the elbow joint, which can be a sign of loose bodies within the joint or cartilage damage.

7. Visible Deformity: In cases of fractures or dislocations, a visible deformity of the elbow joint may be apparent. This requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.