Elbow pain can be caused by a wide variety of conditions. The typical culprits are bursitis, tendinitis, sprain, or strain, but the fracture is also a consideration when experiencing elbow pain. At Orthopedic Specialty, we are here to diagnose and provide recommendations for restoring the range of motion and function of your arm.
Elbow Injuries Defined
The differences in the types of injuries the elbow may sustain depend on the level of activity of the individual, or the result of a fall or other type of accident.
Bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions the elbow joint.
Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons that attach the muscles to the bone. This is frequently caused by repetitive motion and overuse of the joint.
A sprain is defined as an injury to the ligaments that connect the bones to one another. An unusual twist or extension of the elbow will result in a sprain.
Strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons that move the elbow joint. A severe and unusual movement to the elbow can cause strain.
A fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that comprise the elbow joint. It’s a common injury, especially in children when muscles and tendons are still developing. In some instances, surgery is a treatment option.
Home Remedies
There are several things that you can do to help alleviate elbow pain and the best course of action depends on the actual cause of your pain. Here are a few general tips for self-care management of elbow pain
- Rest and Ice (or RICE): Avoid activities that cause pain, and apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Using a compression sleeve/brace or elevating the area can also help reduce swelling and help heal the injury.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: If not contraindicated with other medications you may take, OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can work to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a treatment program that will incorporate stretches and exercises along with other techniques to help reduce pain and improve elbow function.
- Stretching and strengthening movement: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help to improve the flexibility and strength of the elbow. Please Note: Always consult with medical professionals before beginning any form of at-home recovery or exercising.
When to worry:
Upon injury, if you immediately experience rapid swelling, redness, warmth to the touch, extreme pain, weakness, discoloration, a feeling of pins and needles, tingling, or numbness at the elbow or extending down the forearm to the hand, it’s time to get to the doctor.
If your elbow shows no sign of improvement with the above self-care measures, or if your elbow pain suddenly becomes severe, you develop fever, the joint is hot to the touch or the area is discoloring, it’s best to consult a physician for a medical evaluation, diagnosis, and development of a treatment plan. It’s possible to have a broken elbow and not know it right away. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The physicians and staff at Orthopedic Specialty Institute are here to provide you with the best evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan and same-day appointments are never a problem. Call us at 954-866-9699 to schedule your appointment and get back to pain-free living!