Many conditions can lead to elbow pain, from overuse injuries to degenerative diseases. Since the elbow joint comprises numerous bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, any of them could become injured or inflamed and cause pain. It is advisable to seek medical attention for elbow pain Scottsdale and submit to a thorough examination by a healthcare professional.
Elbow pain evaluation and diagnosis
The following procedures are typically followed to assess and identify elbow pain:
- Medical background: The patient will be questioned by the healthcare provider regarding their symptoms, the date the pain first appeared, any prior illnesses or injuries, as well as any movements or activities that make the pain worse or better.
- Physical examination: The healthcare provider will conduct a physical review of the elbow joint to look for any signs of deformity, tenderness, swelling, or redness. Additionally, they might gauge the strength of the muscles surrounding the elbow and the joint’s range of motion.
- Imaging tests: To assess the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the elbow joint, imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be prescribed. These examinations can assist in determining whether fractures, dislocations, tears, or other structural abnormalities are causing the pain.
- Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG): The medical professional may request an EMG or nerve conduction study to assess the function of the nerves in the elbow if nerve compression is suspected.
- Blood tests: Blood tests may be required if an autoimmune condition or an infection is thought to be the source of the elbow pain.
The healthcare provider can identify the underlying cause of elbow pain and create a treatment strategy based on the findings of the evaluation and diagnostic tests.
Here are some of the most common causes of elbow pain:
- Tennis elbow: It is a condition caused by the overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. It is commonly seen in racquet sports athletes but can also affect those who perform repetitive gripping or twisting motions in their daily activities. Symptoms include pain and tenderness outside the elbow, weakness in the grip, and difficulty lifting objects.
- Golfer’s elbow: Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is similar to tennis elbow but affects the muscles and tendons inside the elbow. It is caused by repetitive flexing and twisting of the wrist and is commonly seen in golfers and those who perform repetitive gripping motions in their work. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, weakness in the grip, and difficulty lifting objects.
- Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. In the elbow, bursitis is most commonly seen in the olecranon bursa, located at the tip of the elbow. It can be caused by repetitive motions, such as leaning on the elbows for extended periods, or by trauma to the elbow. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness at the tip of the elbow.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage to the joints. In the elbow, arthritis can be caused by various factors, including aging, injury, and autoimmune disease. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the elbow joint, which can worsen over time.
Seeking medical attention at AZ Ortho if you experience elbow pain is advisable.