When addressing elbow joint pain, a variety of causes become potential suspects. One potential cause of joint pain in the elbow is tendonitis. Fortunately, tendonitis is a condition which can often be treated at home through conservative measures with good prognosis.
Tendonitis
When a tendon becomes irritated of inflamed, this is termed tendonitis. Because the elbows, shoulders, wrists, and heels are highly used joints, tendonitis is most commonly found to occur in these regions. The characteristic near-joint pain of tendonitis is a result of the irritated or inflamed tendon being used. If untreated, tendonitis can become severe and result in the rupture of a tendon. Tendon rupture is extremely painful and requires surgical tennis elbow treatment.
Medial epicondylitis, AKA “golfer’s elbow,” occurs when there is inflammation of the tendons connecting forearm muscles to the medial epicondyl. Golfer’s elbow is a result of overuse of that joint through repetitive motions.
Golfer’s elbow is usually noticed when the individual experiences pain on the inner side of the elbow, sometimes radiating down the forearm, has stiffness and difficulty making a fist, experiences weakness in their hands and wrists, or has a tingling numbness which radiates into the ring and little fingers. Golfer’s elbow may have sudden onset or occur gradually over time.
Rest, ice, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers are the most common methods of achieving golfer’s elbow pain relief and healing. Patients who do not have success with these more conservative treatment methods after 6-12 months may consider surgery as a treatment option. Continue reading and learn more about golfers elbow.
Elbow Joint Pain 