Elbow Pain

Overview

Elbow pain is discomfort in the joint where your upper arm bone meets the two bones of your forearm. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, burning pain. Most of the time, it is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons around the elbow, but injuries and conditions like arthritis can also be behind it.

Yes, elbow pain is very common. Many people experience it at some point in their lives, especially those who do repetitive work or play sports that involve throwing or swinging.

It can affect anyone, but it is most common in adults between 40 and 60 years old. People with jobs like carpentry, painting, plumbing, or assembly line work, as well as athletes who play tennis, golf, or baseball, are more likely to get it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Aching or sharp pain on the inside or outside of the elbow
• Stiffness or difficulty bending or straightening the elbow
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Weakness in the arm or hand, such as trouble gripping or lifting things
• Pain that feels worse when you twist your forearm, shake hands, or lift objects

Symptoms in children

• Elbow pain after a fall or a pull on the arm, especially in toddlers
• Refusing to use the arm, or holding it against the body
• Visible swelling or bruising
• Tenderness when the arm is touched or moved

Symptoms in older adults

• Morning stiffness that eases as the day goes on
• Pain after activities like gardening or carrying groceries
• A grinding or grating feeling when moving the elbow
• Pain that slowly gets worse over time, as often happens with wear-and-tear arthritis

Causes

Main causes

• Overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons) — often called tennis elbow or golfer's elbow
• Injuries such as falls, direct blows, or sudden twisting of the arm
• Bursitis — inflammation of the fluid-filled sac that cushions the elbow
• Arthritis — wear and tear of the joint cartilage (osteoarthritis) or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
• Nerve compression, such as pressure on the ulnar nerve near the elbow, which can cause tingling in the ring and little fingers

Risk factors

• Doing repetitive activities at work or home that involve gripping, twisting, or lifting
• Playing sports like tennis, squash, golf, or throwing sports
• Being between 40 and 60 years old
• Having diabetes, thyroid conditions, or other health issues that increase tendon risk
• Having had an earlier elbow injury or a family history of joint problems

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have severe pain or swelling, especially after an injury
• You cannot straighten or bend your elbow
• You have numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand
• The elbow looks deformed or the skin is broken near the joint
• You have a fever and redness or heat around the elbow

Book a routine appointment if:

• The pain has lasted more than two weeks despite rest and home care
• The pain is bad enough to disrupt your sleep or daily activities
• You are worried about what might be causing the pain
• You have had similar elbow problems before that have not fully resolved

Diagnosis

A doctor will usually start by asking about your symptoms, job, hobbies, and any recent injuries. They will then examine your elbow, press on different spots, and ask you to move your arm in several directions. This helps them understand which part of the elbow is affected.

Tests that may be done

• Imaging tests are not always needed, but an X-ray can help rule out a fracture or arthritis.
• An ultrasound can show problems in the tendons or fluid around the joint.
• An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be used if the doctor needs a closer look at the soft tissues, such as ligaments or tendons.

What to expect at your appointment

The visit is usually quick and does not involve needles. The doctor may move your elbow and wrist to pinpoint the painful area. Based on the examination, they may suggest a treatment plan or refer you to a physical therapist or specialist.

Treatment

Treatment for elbow pain usually begins with simple steps at home. Resting the arm, applying ice, and avoiding the activity that caused the pain are often enough. If the pain continues, a doctor can recommend further treatments.

Self-care at home

• Rest the arm and stop the activity that caused the pain for a few days.
• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
• Use a compression bandage or an elbow support (such as a sleeve or strap, bought at a pharmacy) to help reduce movement and provide comfort.
• Keep the elbow raised on a pillow when resting or sleeping to help reduce swelling.
• Gently move your wrist and elbow after the worst pain has eased, as total stillness can make stiffness worse.

Medical treatments

If home care is not enough, a doctor may suggest other approaches. These can include physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, pain-relief medicines that your pharmacist can recommend, and in some cases, anti-inflammatory injections to reduce swelling and pain. A doctor will always explain the benefits and risks before any treatment.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for elbow pain. It may be considered if you have a serious tear in a tendon, a broken bone that does not heal properly, or if the pain continues after trying other treatments for several months. Your doctor will tell you if surgery might help your specific situation.

Living with this condition

Living with elbow pain often means making small changes to how you do things. Use your other arm or a different tool if one movement hurts. Take regular breaks when doing repeated tasks. If you work at a desk, make sure your chair and keyboard are set up so your elbows rest comfortably and your wrists are not strained.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid the activities that trigger the pain until it improves.
• Use correct techniques when lifting, typing, or playing sports.
• Warm up before exercise and stretch afterwards.
• Try to keep your forearm muscles strong with gentle exercises recommended by a physical therapist.

Diet and exercise

Regular gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help keep your body healthy without putting stress on the elbow. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein supports tissue healing. Drinking enough water and getting enough sleep also help your body recover.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with pain can feel frustrating, especially when it limits what you enjoy doing. It is normal to feel anxious, upset, or low when pain lasts a long time. If you notice these feelings, talk to your doctor or a trusted friend. Remember that asking for emotional support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of elbow pain by avoiding overuse and using good body mechanics. Warm up before physical activity, use tools with a larger grip, and take regular breaks during repetitive tasks. Strengthening your forearm and shoulder muscles can also help protect the joint.

Complications

If left untreated

• The pain may become long-lasting (chronic), making everyday tasks difficult.
• You may lose some range of motion in the elbow, making it hard to fully straighten or bend your arm.
• A minor tendon injury could worsen and lead to a partial or complete tear.
• Ongoing pain may cause muscle weakness or stiffness in the arm and hand.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for most elbow pain is very good. With rest, simple home care, and time, many people feel better within a few weeks. For those who need extra help, physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments are often effective. Even when symptoms last a while, most people regain full use of their elbow and return to their usual activities.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.