Elbow pain

Georgios Panagopoulos MD | Orthopaedic Surgeon

Elbow pain is very common and can have a significant impact on our activities of daily living. Elbow pain can be caused by injuries, overuse, or an underlying process, such as arthritis.Treatment depends on the underlying pathology.

Elbow pain: Anatomy

The elbow is the joint formed by the arm bone, or humerus, and the 2 bones of the forearm, or radius & ulna. It includes 3 different joints, that allow flexion, extension, pronation and supination of the forearm.

Elbow pain & associated symptoms

Elbow pain can be accompanied by a variety of associated symptoms, that may include:

• Pain at the elbow
• Tenderness to touch - palpation
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Weakness & instability
• Numbness & tingling of the fingers

Elbow pain: Causes

Common causes of elbow pain may include:

• Tennis & golfer's elbow
• Elbow fractures, such as radial head fractures, olecranon fractures, or distal humerus fractures.
• Tendonitis , tendon inflammation
• Arthritis, that includes osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis
• Nerve entrapment around the elbow, such as cubital tunnel syndrome.
• Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture, with associated weak supination & flexion.
• Inflammation & bursitis, such as olecranon bursitis.

Elbow pain: Diagnosis

An accurate diagnosis is paramount for appropriate treatment of elbow pain. The diagnostic process may include the following:

• Full history & clinical exam
• Appropriate imaging studies: these may include xrays, ultrasound, CT or MRI scans.
• Nerve conduction studies: EMG/NCS - to assess for nerve entrapment syndromes

Conservative treatment

For most cases, conservative management is a valid option. This may include:

• Rest & activity modification
• Physiotherapy - home exercise program
• NSAIDS or steroid injections
• A supportive or protective brace, if applicable

Surgical treatment

Surgery may be needed if conservative treatment fails to provide relief. Surgical interventions for elbow pain may include:

• Repair or reconstruction of tendons, ie distal biceps tendon repair.
• Olecranon bursitis excision.
• Ulnar nerve decompression at the cubital tunnel +/- anterior transposition.
• Elbow arthroplasty for arthritis or fractures.
• Fracture surgery, including internal fixation or arthroplasty.

Dr Panagopoulos will study your case carefully and discuss options with you at length in the office.

Contact us today to relieve your elbow pain and get back your function and quality of life.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions