Elbow Pain

Elbow pain refers to discomfort or inflammation in the elbow joint, which can result from a variety of causes including injury, overuse, or medical conditions. At ATI Physical Therapy, we specialize in diagnosing and treating elbow pain to help our patients regain function and reduce discomfort.

What is Elbow Pain?

Elbow pain is discomfort or soreness in the elbow joint, which connects the upper arm (humerus) to the forearm (radius and ulna). This pain can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by stiffness, weakness, or limited range of motion. Elbow pain can affect daily activities such as lifting objects, typing, or participating in sports, and may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting).

Treatment Options for Elbow Pain

Hand Therapy
Injury Screenings
Online Physical Therapy
Specialty Therapies
Dry Needling
Manual Therapy
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Sports Medicine
Workers Comp Rehab

Common Elbow Pain Causes

Several factors can contribute to elbow pain, including:

  • Overuse injuries, such as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow
  • Trauma from accidents or falls
  • Arthritis or osteoarthritis
  • Nerve entrapment, such as cubital tunnel syndrome
  • Bursitis or tendonitis
  • Fractures or dislocations

Elbow Pain Symptoms

Elbow pain symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but common signs include:

  • Sharp or aching pain in the elbow joint
  • Swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow
  • Difficulty in straightening or bending the arm
  • Weakness in the hand, wrist, or forearm
  • Stiffness in the elbow joint
  • Tingling or numbness, especially if related to nerve compression

Elbow Pain FAQ

Dealing with elbow pain can be frustrating and may raise many questions about causes, treatments, and prevention strategies. To address common concerns, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about elbow pain. These cover topics such as risk factors, prevention techniques, treatment options, and the benefits of physical therapy for elbow conditions.

You may be at higher risk for developing elbow pain if you:

  • Participate in repetitive sports activities like tennis, golf, or baseball
  • Perform repetitive work tasks such as typing or lifting
  • Are over the age of 40
  • Have a history of joint or bone conditions, like arthritis
  • Experience trauma or accidents involving the arm or elbow

To prevent elbow pain, consider the following:

  • Engage in stretching and strengthening exercises for the arm and elbow
  • Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks to reduce strain
  • Use proper techniques and equipment in sports to avoid injury
  • Wear protective gear during high-risk activities
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints

Treatment for elbow pain, like tennis elbow, varies depending on the cause but may include:

  • Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
  • Rest and activity modification to allow healing
  • Ice or heat therapy to reduce swelling and pain
  • Bracing or splinting for support
  • Medications like anti-inflammatory drugs
  • In severe cases, surgery may be recommended

The benefits of elbow physical therapy include:

  • Improved strength and flexibility in the elbow and surrounding muscles
  • Reduced pain and inflammation
  • Enhanced range of motion
  • Correction of improper movement patterns to prevent future injury
  • Education on proper ergonomics and body mechanics
  • Faster return to daily activities and sports
  • Non-invasive treatment options that can often prevent the need for surgery

Explore More

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing pain, or looking to optimize your fitness, our team shares valuable information to help you live a healthier, more active life.

Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractor: Which is Right for You?

Reviewed and contributions made by Sr Director Access Management Operations Dallas Reynolds, PT, DPT, Cert. DN, COMT There is no one-size-fits-all answer in the debate between physical therapy and chiropractic...

ATI Physical Therapy Named One of Oregon’s Top Workplaces

This marks the clinic’s first-time recognition based on employee feedback and key cultural factors Bolingbrook, IL, September 29, 2024 - ATI Physical Therapy has been named one of The Oregon...

Tips for Living With Chronic Back Pain

Reviewed and contributions made by Sr Director Access Management Operations Dallas Reynolds, PT, DPT, Cert. DN, COMT Living with chronic back pain can be challenging, impacting various aspects of daily...

Most Common Shoulder Injuries in Sports

Reviewed and contributions made by Sr Director Access Management Operations Dallas Reynolds, PT, DPT, Cert. DN, COMT Shoulder injuries are common in sports, affecting athletes across various disciplines and skill...
Load more

Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain at ATI

At ATI Physical Therapy, we offer comprehensive care for individuals experiencing elbow pain. Whether you’re dealing with acute elbow pain from an injury or chronic discomfort, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and function in your elbow. Contact ATI Physical Therapy today to get started.