Elbow Pain
Elbow Pain
What is elbow pain?
Elbow pain is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and can interfere with simple tasks like lifting objects, gripping, or even bending the arm. The elbow joint is essential for performing various movements, such as reaching and rotating the forearm. Elbow pain can range from a mild discomfort to severe, sharp pain, making it challenging to perform daily activities and participate in sports or physical exercises.
What causes elbow pain?
Elbow pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, usually due to repetitive movements.
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis): Inflammation of the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, often caused by repetitive gripping or throwing motions.
- Elbow sprains or strains: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments or muscles in the elbow.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa sacs that cushion the elbow joint.
- Elbow fractures: Breaks in the bones of the elbow due to traumatic injuries or falls.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the elbow caused by overuse.
- Arthritis: Degeneration of the elbow joint due to age or wear and tear.
- Elbow dislocation: Displacement of the bones in the elbow joint.
- Nerve compression: Compression of the nerves near the elbow, such as the ulnar nerve (cubital tunnel syndrome).
If you experience persistent or worsening elbow pain, seeking professional help is essential to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
How can Physio help with elbow pain?
Physiotherapy is an effective approach to treating elbow pain and addressing its underlying causes. Our experienced Physiotherapists will conduct a comprehensive assessment to pinpoint the specific factors contributing to your elbow pain. Understanding the root cause is crucial in developing a personalised treatment plan for effective pain relief and rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy aims to reduce elbow pain, improve joint mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and prevent future elbow issues.
What treatment will you do for elbow pain?
Following the assessment and consultation, our team of experts may recommend a combination of treatments to help alleviate elbow pain, such as:
- Manual therapy techniques to release muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility.
- Targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve overall stability.
- Elbow and forearm stretching exercises to enhance flexibility and range of motion.
- Postural correction and ergonomic advice to avoid activities that aggravate elbow pain.
- Heat or cold therapy to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.
- Shockwave therapy to speed up the healing process
- Acupuncture
Our goal is to create a tailored treatment plan that not only addresses your current elbow pain but also empowers you to take proactive measures to prevent future episodes.
What can I do to reduce my elbow pain before my appointment?
In addition to the treatments provided by our Physiotherapists, there are self-care measures you can adopt to manage elbow pain:
- Avoid activities that worsen the pain and put extra strain on your elbow.
- Modify your techniques or movements during sports or physical activities to reduce stress on the elbow.
- Use proper form and technique during weightlifting or repetitive gripping motions.
- Perform regular forearm and elbow stretches to maintain joint flexibility.
- Take breaks and rest your elbow when engaging in repetitive tasks.
- Use heat or ice to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain
- Use a elbow strap to help alleviate pain (although we would recommend waiting to see your Physio first!)
If you’re unsure whether Physiotherapy treatment is suitable for your elbow pain, please click the button below to request a call back from our team of experts. They will provide more information and guide you in the right direction.
Get In Touch​
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment you can send us a message, email us, call us or book online.
Reception
Katie Harben
Registered Office:
- Katie Bell Physiotherapy & Wellness ,346 Ecclesall Road South, Sheffield, S11 9PU