What are the signs of an elbow problem?
General pain in your elbow joint is a major red flag indicating a problem in your joint. In addition to pain, you’re also likely to experience:
- Pain or swelling
- Redness or warmth
- Tenderness
- Stiffness
- Clicking or popping
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should schedule an evaluation at Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists.
What causes elbow pain?
Elbow pain is generally a sign of an underlying problem, such as:
- Sprains and strains (including tennis elbow) as a result of overuse or an accident
- Bursitis, an injury or inflammation of the cushiony sac between tissues
- Arthritis wearing down the cartilage in your elbow
- Tendinitis, or inflammation of the soft tissues that attach muscles to bones
Because elbow pain can stem from so many different issues, it’s important first to seek a thorough diagnosis so your elbow can get the proper treatment.
Which treatment is best for my elbow pain?
First, your provider will ask you to describe the pain, its severity, and the symptoms you're experiencing. They may also order additional tests, such as an on-site X-ray or another diagnostic procedure, to ensure you don't have an elbow fracture or arthritis.
After your elbow pain is diagnosed, your provider develops a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your situation, your treatment may include:
- Immobilization in a cast or splint
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
If your elbow pain worsens or doesn't improve with conservative treatments, your provider at Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists may recommend surgery.
To learn more about treating elbow pain, call Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists.
