Elbow Injuries & Symptoms

Three long bones meet the elbow in the middle of the arm. The elbow acts as a hinge, so to speak -- making it possible for the forearm to rotate. The elbow moves the forearm back and forth like a door hinge moves a door back and forth. When the "hinge" is defective, elbow pain and discomfort occur -- meaning a minor or more serious injury to the elbow.

Lateral Epicondylitis

• Lateral epicondylitis is commonly known as tennis elbow. The lateral epicondyle is located on the outside bony part of the elbow. The muscles of the forearm are attached by large tendons. These large tendons are usually injured by repeated movement of the forearm. Movements contributing to tennis elbow include: use of a manual screwdriver, washing windows and performing a backhand in tennis.

  This injury inflames the tendons, resulting in pain on the outside of elbow. Along with inflammation, tennis elbow can cause swelling and a feeling of warmth, but the tenderness will always be present. With tennis elbow, a full range of motion is not inhibited and symptoms usually appear at the end of the day. Too much twisting or activity of the elbow will increase pain.

  X-rays of tennis elbow appear normal, but may show calcium deposits on the large tendons. Tennis elbow can be treated with ice packs and anti-inflammatory medications.

Medical Epicondylitis

• Medical epicondylitis is commonly known as golfer's elbow. In golfer's elbow, inflammation presents itself where tendons of the forearm attach at the bony part of the inner elbow. Tendons usually become strained with a golf swing, but other movements of the elbow can also strain and cause injury for these tendons as well.

  Pain from golfer's elbow presents itself as local pain and tenderness covering the inner elbow. Since the inner joint is not strained with golfer's elbow, range of motion is not affected. As in tennis elbow, the more strain and twisting put on golfer's elbow, the more severe the pain.

  X-ray of the golfer's elbow will show a buildup of calcium over a period of time. Golfer's elbow is usually treated with ice packs and NSAIDs including naproxen and ibuprofen. If golfer's elbow is severe, cortisone shots may be considered as treatment. Rehabilitation exercises may also be considered for serious cases of golfer's elbow.

Elbow Sprain

• Sprains in the elbow result from a stretch or tear in one or more ligaments. This occurs when the elbow is overextended or jammed. The amount of pain caused by an elbow sprain depends on if one or more ligaments is damaged. Pain can result from isolated swelling and soreness, or a limited range of motion due to the severity of sprain.

  Elbow sprains are treated by resting the elbow, applying ice, putting the elbow in a sling, or anti-inflammatory medications.