What causes elbow pain?
Your elbow joint contains three bones: the humerus, ulna, and radius. Cartilage covers each bone and tendons, ligaments, and muscles support smooth function. With many different parts, it’s not surprising that there are many different ways for elbow pain to occur.
Some of the most common conditions that cause elbow pain are:
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Nerve entrapment
In most cases, elbow pain occurs with overuse or wear-and-tear over time. Elbow pain usually appears suddenly and without any clear cause. But, occasionally a sports injury or other type of accident causes an injury like dislocation or fracture of the elbow bones.
What are the signs that I need treatment for elbow pain?
Elbow pain can be constant or sporadic, but in either case, there are a few telltale signs that call for an appointment with Congress Orthopaedic Associates to receive an evaluation and treatment. Watch out for:
- Persistent pain despite rest and conservative care
- Worsening elbow swelling
- Worsening elbow inflammation
- Limited elbow range of motion
- Elbow pain even when you're not using it
- Inability to perform daily activities, such as brushing your teeth or combing your hair
Unfortunately, elbow pain rarely resolves spontaneously, so it’s best to seek treatment before it becomes a truly debilitating issue that disrupts your whole life.
How is elbow pain treated?
To treat elbow pain effectively, you need a diagnosis first. Congress Orthopaedic Associates has in-office imaging, including X-ray and MRI, to confirm your diagnosis after your initial exam. The specific treatment plan can vary depending on the root cause of your elbow pain, with common treatments being:
Immobilization
An elbow brace or cast is a common part of recovery, whether you have surgical or conservative treatment. Restricting joint movement allows you time to heal fully.
Medication
Medication can include pain-relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage symptoms.
Physical therapy
Congress Orthopaedic Associates has in-office physical therapy to help you move and function better with less elbow pain.
Injections
In some cases, injections of corticosteroids and anesthetics can decrease inflammation and pain for several months or more.
Elbow surgery
If other elbow pain solutions fail, surgery can repair elbow damage and restore your joint to full function. Congress Orthopaedic Associates uses the newest and most advanced surgical techniques to ensure the highest success rates.
Congress Orthopaedic Associates can personalize an elbow pain solution to alleviate your discomfort. Call the office nearest you or click the booking link for help now.
