Elbow Pain

What is it?

Elbow pain is a common complaint, with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) the most prevalent overuse injury — affecting up to 3% of adults, including many who have never played tennis. It results from repetitive wrist extension straining the common extensor origin at the lateral epicondyle. Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow) involves the flexor-pronator origin. Olecranon bursitis presents as posterior elbow swelling. Ulnar nerve entrapment (cubital tunnel syndrome) causes medial elbow pain with ring and little finger numbness.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Elbow pain after significant trauma with deformity or inability to extend/flex
• 2Tingling and numbness in the ring and little fingers (cubital tunnel syndrome)
• 3Posterior elbow swelling with warmth and fever (infected bursitis)
• 4Elbow pain that has not improved after 4–6 weeks of conservative management
• 5Elbow pain with systemic symptoms suggesting inflammatory arthritis

What you can do

• ✓Rest from activities that aggravate symptoms for 2–4 weeks
• ✓Apply ice for 15–20 minutes after activity to reduce inflammation
• ✓Eccentric exercise programs are more effective than rest alone for tendinopathy
• ✓Use a counterforce brace (tennis elbow strap) during activities
• ✓Evaluate and modify technique or equipment — grip size, keyboard height, and tool use

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions