Elbow Pain Breakdown
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
This condition involves pain on the outer side of the elbow, typically caused by overuse or repetitive motion of the forearm muscles.
It’s often associated with activities like tennis, hence the name, but it can be caused by various activities involving hand gripping and rapid wrist movement.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow causes pain on the inner side of the elbow. It’s usually caused by overuse of the forearm muscles that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus bone.
Osteoarthritis of the Elbow
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones within a joint gradually wears down over time. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and reduced joint function.
Elbow Tendonitis
Tendons around the elbow, such as the bicep or tricep tendons (tricep or bicep tendonitis), can become inflamed and cause pain from overuse. This is often a result of repetitive motions or overuse.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury
Common among athletes, particularly baseball players, UCL injuries can cause pain on the inner side of the elbow and may require surgical intervention, while regenerative techniques could support the healing and strengthening of the UCL. Read more at Wikipedia.
Olecranon Bursitis
A condition in which a fluid-filled sac located at the tip of the elbow, becomes inflamed and swollen, causing pain and tenderness. This is often due to injury, infection, or prolonged pressure on the elbow.
Fractures or Dislocations
Elbow fractures or dislocations, often due to accidents or falls, can cause severe discomfort and require immediate medical attention.
Nerve Entrapments and Elbow Pain
Various nerves pass through or around the elbow joint, and entrapment or compression of these nerves can lead to painful conditions, such as radial nerve entrapment.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel on the inner side of the elbow. It can result in pain, tingling, and numbness in the forearm and hand.
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome: Similar to cubital tunnel syndrome, radial tunnel syndrome involves compression of the radial nerve as it passes through the forearm muscles near the elbow. This can lead to pain on the outer side of the forearm.