Elbow pain is a common complaint that can arise from a variety of issues, ranging from simple overuse to more significant injuries or underlying conditions. If you’re experiencing discomfort in your elbow joints, understanding the potential causes is the first step towards finding relief. The type and intensity of your elbow pain can offer clues about the root problem, and appropriate treatment will depend directly on what’s causing your pain.
Here are several frequent reasons why your elbow joints might hurt:
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Tendinitis: Tendons are robust cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Tendinitis occurs when these tendons become inflamed, often due to overuse. A classic example is tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), where repetitive motions, such as those in racket sports or certain occupations, lead to pain. These repetitive actions, involving swinging or twisting the forearm, can strain the tendons around the elbow joint, resulting in inflammation and pain.
Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis can affect the elbow joint, leading to pain and reduced function. Arthritis in the elbow often brings not only pain but also stiffness and a decreased range of motion. You might also notice swelling and inflammation around the joint. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are examples of arthritic conditions that can impact the elbow.
Bursitis: At the tip of each elbow, you have small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae. These sacs act as cushions between your skin and the bony prominence of your elbow (olecranon). Bursitis develops when these bursae become inflamed. Olecranon bursitis, specifically, can cause noticeable pain, swelling, and redness at the elbow tip. The area might also feel warm to the touch due to the inflammation.
Injuries: The elbow joint is susceptible to various injuries that can cause pain. These range from acute, one-time incidents to injuries that develop over time. Common elbow injuries include fractures (breaks in the bone), sprains (ligament injuries), strains (muscle or tendon injuries), dislocations (when bones are forced out of alignment), and tendon tears.
One-Time Elbow Injuries
Sometimes, elbow pain stems from a singular, traumatic event, like a fall or a direct blow during sports or an accident.
Dislocated Elbow: An elbow dislocation occurs when one of the bones forming the elbow joint is forced out of its normal position. A common cause is falling onto an outstretched hand, which can put excessive force on the elbow joint. Interestingly, young children can experience a “nursemaid’s elbow” (pulled elbow) when they are swung or lifted by their forearms, causing a partial dislocation. If you suspect an elbow dislocation in yourself or your child, prompt medical attention is crucial.
Fractured Elbow: An elbow fracture means one of the bones around your elbow joint has broken. This usually results from a significant impact, such as in contact sports, falls, or car accidents. It’s important to remember that even if you can still move your elbow after an injury, a fracture is still possible. If you experience significant pain and the elbow appears deformed or unusual, seek medical evaluation immediately. A fractured elbow requires professional medical care to ensure proper healing.
