What are the symptoms of an elbow injury?
Since most types of elbow injuries are the result of overuse, many symptoms begin after a period of frequent elbow bending and twisting. Common signs of elbow injuries include:
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Pain when bending or rotating your arm
- Swelling
- Tenderness along the joint line
- Numbness or tingling in your forearm or hand
Direct trauma to your arm can also cause significant damage to the muscles, ligaments, bone, and joints in your elbow.
What causes elbow pain?
Some of the main causes of elbow pain include:
- Golfer’s elbow
- Tennis elbow
- Bursitis
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Arthritis
- Pronator teres syndrome
- Biceps tendinitis
The majority of elbow injuries involve the soft tissue structures of the elbow, especially the tendons on the inside and outside of your elbow where tendinitis is likely to occur.
How is elbow pain diagnosed?
If you’re experiencing elbow pain or any other symptoms of an elbow injury, the Ortho One team begins by asking about the location of your pain and activities that worsen your pain, such as repetitive elbow bending or leaning on your elbow.
Your provider then examines your elbow by pressing on different structures within and surrounding the joint. You may notice tenderness or discomfort when certain areas are pressed or squeezed. Orthopedic tests to assess the stability of your elbow joint and the ligaments supporting the joint are also performed.
In some cases of extreme pain, swelling, and disability, the team orders X-rays or an MRI of your elbow to check for fractures, dislocations, and muscle tears. Based on their findings, the team explains your diagnosis and provides treatment options.
What treatment options are available for elbow pain?
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of your elbow pain. For pain relief, the team offers:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Prescription pain medications
- Hot and cold therapy
- Electrical nerve stimulation
- Joint injections
- Regenerative medicine
If mobility is an issue for you and you’re experiencing stiffness or instability in your elbow, the team may recommend:
- Physical therapy
- Bracing
- Surgical intervention
If surgery is necessary for your condition, the team explains the procedure and what to expect before, during, and after so you’re prepared and have an opportunity to have all of your questions answered.
To set up a consultation for your elbow issues, call Ortho One Jacksonville or schedule an appointment online today.
