What's the Deal With My Elbow? Elbow Pain: 5 Common Causes

 

What's the Deal With My Elbow? Elbow Pain: 5 Common Causes

It's time to consult a doctor if you have a serious elbow injury and have tried home cures without success. Orthopaedic Associates of Connecticut's board-certified clinicians are here to assist you.

First, a primer on elbow anatomy. Your elbow is a "hinge" joint made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone) and the ulna and radius (lower arm bones). The joint is held together by muscles, ligaments, and tendons, while cartilage functions as a shock absorber, shielding the bones from impact. The olecranon bursa is a tiny, fluid-filled sac positioned near the bony tip of your elbow that acts as a cushion between the bones and your skin.

Let's look at some of the most prevalent reasons of elbow pain next.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon, which is a fibrous structure that connects the muscle to the bone. Repetitive motion or a sudden injury are the most typical causes. Tendonitis causes discomfort and stiffness in the elbow, as well as weakness in the wrist and hands. When the tendons around the elbow are overused, tennis elbow and golfer's elbow develop.

Tendonitis isn't just a problem for athletes. Tendonitis can be caused by any repeated motion, such as those employed by carpenters, painters, and plumbers. Even gardening and housework can cause elbow pain!

Elbow Dislocation

When one of the bones in the elbow becomes detached from or knocked out of its usual position, it is called a dislocated elbow. Elbow dislocations are commonly caused by landing on your outstretched hand while attempting to avoid a fall, bracing yourself in a car accident, and athletic injuries. Lifting or swinging little infants by their elbows, or a sudden pull while holding your child's hand, might create "nursemaid's elbow."

A dislocated elbow is typically excruciatingly painful. In the majority of cases, your elbow joint has a visible malformation. If you believe you have a dislocated elbow, you should get medical attention from a certified orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible. The danger of irreparable harm is reduced when treatment is started early. OSC's board-certified physicians are ready for emergency room and hospital care 24 hours a day.

Bursitis

The olecranon bursa, located at the bony tip of your elbow, can fill with excess fluid and become bloated when irritated or inflamed. Swelling, pain when bending your elbow or applying direct pressure, and redness/warmth to the touch are all symptoms of bursitis.

A abrupt trauma, such as a fall, is one cause of bursitis. In football, basketball, and hockey players, hitting your elbow on a hard surface is a common injury. Bursitis can also be caused by leaning on hard surfaces for lengthy periods of time. Plumbers and HVAC technicians are particularly vulnerable. Long periods of typing on computer keyboards, as well as physical illnesses such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney failure needing dialysis, can render you prone.

Elbow Sprains and Strains

A sprain occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn abnormally. A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn abnormally. Sprains and strains are commonly caused by overuse and severe injuries such as accidents or falls. Athletes who throw, use a racquet, or play contact sports are prone to elbow sprains.

An elbow sprain or strain is characterized by pain, bruising, and edema. You could find it difficult to extend or flex your arm. Rest, cold, compression bandages, and elevation are some of the home remedies that can help. Tears, on the other hand, can be more significant and necessitate surgery. Pain, swelling, bruising, and a protrusion in your upper arm are all signs of tearing. You should see an orthopedist as soon as possible if you suspect a tear.

Nerve Problems

The ulnar, radial, and median nerves are the three primary nerves in your arm. Elbow pain can be caused by compression of these nerves. Nerve compression has no recognized origin, but it can be caused by specific behaviors. Long lengths of time spent leaning on your elbows, such as long-distance commuting or office work, as well as sports where you throw or swing repeatedly, such as football, baseball, tennis, or golf, might increase your risk of compressing a nerve. Your risk is increased if you have had previous elbow injuries such as fractures or dislocations.

Untreated nerve compression can lead to lasting injury, therefore it's crucial to see an orthopedist as soon as possible. Pain and numbness in your elbow, as well as tingling in your ring and little fingers, are signs of ulnar nerve compression. You may feel discomfort on the top of your forearm, the outside of your elbow, or the back of your hand if you have radial nerve problems. While the median nerve can be squeezed at the elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more usually caused by compression at the wrist.

Getting Past the Pain

Whether you're a serious athlete or a weekend warrior, a tradesperson or a committed housekeeper, the skilled team of orthopedic professionals will get you back in the game.

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source : ctorthopaedic