Understanding Elbow Joint Pain Causes and Treatments
Explore the causes of elbow joint pain, from overuse injuries to arthritis. Learn about common symptoms, diagnostic methods, and effective treatments to relieve pain and restore function.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 13th Jan, 2026
Introduction
Elbow joint pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, from athletes to office workers. Whether it's a dull ache or sharp discomfort, elbow pain can interfere with daily activities like lifting, typing, or even shaking hands. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage the pain effectively and prevent further complications.
Common Causes of Elbow Joint Pain
Elbow pain can stem from various conditions, including injuries, overuse, or underlying medical issues. Here are some common causes:
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Despite its name, tennis elbow isn’t limited to athletes. It occurs due to repetitive wrist and arm motions, leading to inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow.
Symptoms:
Pain when gripping or lifting objects
Tenderness on the outer elbow
Weakness in the forearm
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow but affects the inner side of the elbow. It’s caused by repetitive wrist flexion (bending the wrist inward).
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Symptoms:
Pain on the inner elbow
Stiffness when making a fist
Weakness in hand movements
3. Bursitis
The elbow has a fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions the joint. Overuse or trauma can inflame it, leading to swelling and pain.
Symptoms:
Swelling at the back of the elbow
Redness and warmth
Pain when moving the joint
4. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Arthritis can wear down the cartilage in the elbow, causing stiffness and pain.
Symptoms:
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Grinding sensation when moving the elbow
Swelling and tenderness
5. Sprains and Strains
Sudden twists or overstretching can damage ligaments (sprains) or muscles/tendons (strains).
Symptoms:
Sharp pain during movement
Bruising or swelling
Limited range of motion
6. Nerve Compression (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)
The ulnar nerve, which runs through the elbow, can get compressed, leading to numbness or tingling in the fingers.
Symptoms:
Numbness in the ring and little fingers
Weak grip strength
Pain inside the elbow
How to Manage Elbow Joint Pain?
Here’s how you can manage elbow joint pain:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Avoid activities that worsen the pain. If your job involves repetitive motions, take frequent breaks.
2. Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice packs (15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day) help reduce swelling.
Heat therapy (warm compress) can relax stiff muscles.
3. Pain Relief Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Consult a doctor before long-term use.
4. Physical Therapy and Exercises
A physiotherapist can recommend strengthening and stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce strain.
5. Bracing or Splinting
Elbow braces or compression sleeves can provide support and reduce stress on tendons.
6. Lifestyle Changes
Maintain good posture while working.
Strengthen forearm muscles with light exercises.
Avoid excessive gripping or heavy lifting.
7. When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
Pain persists beyond a few weeks
There’s severe swelling or deformity
You experience numbness or weakness
Preventing Elbow Pain
Warm up before physical activities.
Use ergonomic tools to reduce strain.
Strengthen arm muscles with regular exercise.
When to Consider Professional Help?
If home remedies don’t help, consult a specialist for further evaluation. At Apollo 24|7, you can book an online consultation or schedule diagnostic tests to determine the exact cause of your elbow pain. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications.
Conclusion
Elbow joint pain can be frustrating, but with the right care, most cases improve with time. Listen to your body, avoid overuse, and seek professional advice if needed. A few small changes in your routine can make a big difference in keeping your elbows healthy and pain-free.
If you're experiencing persistent elbow pain, don’t ignore it—book a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist today on Apollo 24|7 for personalised care and treatment options.
Consult Top Specialists
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Dr Vikas P Birla
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13 Years • MBBS, DNB, MNAMS, Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
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8 Years • MBBS,(D. Ortho)
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Dr. Sushruth J
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5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Susheel B
Orthopaedician
13 Years • MBBS, MS, Ortho Fellowship in Trauma ( Germany) Fellowship in Arthroscopy and Arthroplasty ( Switzerland)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Consult Top Specialists
Dr Vikas P Birla
Orthopedics-Sports Medicine
13 Years • MBBS, DNB, MNAMS, Fellowship in Shoulder and Sports Injury
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Rupam Chowdhury
Orthopaedician
10 Years • MBBS, DNB (Ortho.)
Kolkata
MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata
Dr. Sudipta Saha
Orthopaedician
8 Years • MBBS,(D. Ortho)
Kolkata
VDC Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Susheel B
Orthopaedician
13 Years • MBBS, MS, Ortho Fellowship in Trauma ( Germany) Fellowship in Arthroscopy and Arthroplasty ( Switzerland)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
