Elbow Pain

The common types of elbow problems include:

Medial Epicondylitis
Medial Epicondylitis, commonly known as the golfer’s elbow affects the inner tendons of the elbow. The repetitive motions involved in sports like baseball or golf can cause this disorder. It can cause severe pain inside the elbow, especially with wrist movement.

Lateral Epicondylitis
Also known as Tennis Elbow, this condition affects the outside of the elbow. It is commonly seen in individuals involved in racquet sports. Its symptoms include pain along the outside of the elbow & difficulty in getting a grip.

Olecranon Bursitis
Also known as student’s elbow or miner’s elbow, this condition affects the bursae that protect the joints. It may be a result of a blow to the elbow, infection or arthritis. Its symptoms include pain, swelling & difficulty moving the elbow

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis affects the cartilage in the joints. Elbow osteoarthritis is caused by an elbow injury or wear & tear of the joints. Symptoms of elbow osteoarthritis include pain, difficulty bending the elbow, a locking sensation in the elbow, grating sounds or inflammation.

Dislocation or fracture of elbow
Elbow injuries are often a result of a fall or sports. When a person falls on an outstretched arm or elbow, he or she is likely to have a dislocation (when the bone moved from its usual position) or a fracture (when a bone cracks or breaks). Symptoms include visible changes like swelling & discolouration, pain & difficulty moving the joint.

Ligament Strains & sprains
Ligament sprains in the elbow are often a result of trauma or repeated stress. The ligament may get stretched, partially torn or completely torn. Symptoms of ligament tears include pain, inflammation, difficulty moving the elbow.

After performing a physical examination your orthopedic surgeon is likely to recommend the following imaging tests:

• X Rays
• CT Scan
• MRI Scan
• Electromyography
• Biopsy of Bursa Fluid

Treatment depends on the type of elbow disorder & the symptoms experienced by the patient. In most cases, simple treatment methods like applying ice, getting rest, using pain medications like NSAIDs, physiotherapy, braces would help. In some cases, elbow padding or steroid injections may be necessary.

Surgery is often the last result if symptoms do not improve with any of the other conservative treatment methods. Elite orthopedics offers the best treatment for elbow pain. Consult the specialists today.