Elbow

Elbow pain is typically caused by overuse and sports injuries. The following are some conditions that can cause elbow pain:

• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) – tendinopathy of the inner tendons in the elbow commonly caused by repetitive movements resulting from work or household chores, a baseball pitcher’s repetitive throwing motion and golfer’s downward swing of a golf club.
• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) – tendinopathy of the tendons on the outside of the elbow commonly caused by repetitive movements resulting from household chores, racquet sports and certain occupations.
• Olecranon Bursitis (Student’s Elbow, Miner’s Elbow, Draftsman’s Elbow) – inflammation of the small sacs of fluid (bursae) that help protect the pointed elbow bone typically caused by trauma (e.g., falling on the elbow or hitting it on a hard surface).
• Osteoarthritis (OA) – damage and deterioration of the cartilage (connective tissue in the joints) typically age-related but can also be due to a previous injury (e.g., elbow fracture).
• Elbow Strain – over-stretched or torn forearm flexor or extensor muscles typically caused by trauma or overuse.
• Elbow Sprain – over-stretched or torn ligaments (band of tissue that connects bone to bone) that can result from trauma or overuse.
• Elbow Dislocation – a bone moves from its usual position commonly caused by catching yourself during a fall or when you swing a toddler by the forearms (nursemaid’s elbow).
• Elbow Fracture – when a bone cracks or breaks typically resulting from a sudden blow (e.g., an auto accident or contact sports injury).
• Osteochondritis Dissecans (Panner’s Disease) – small pieces of cartilage and bone become dislodged in the elbow joint typically resulting from a sports injury.

Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain

Our therapy services are provided by experienced and skilled physical therapists. We work one-on-one with patients using compassion, creativity, and advanced therapy techniques, in a comfortable environment, to help patients achieve their goals and restore function. Individually designed therapy programs are carefully developed for patients with injuries and/or medical conditions related to the elbow.

Physical therapy treatment for elbow pain may include:

• Evaluation (pre- and post-op)
• Splints (custom & prefabricated)
• Patient/Family Education
• Written Home Programs
• Wound Care
• Kinetic Taping
• Thermal and Electrical Modalities
• Strength & Endurance Training
• Injury Prevention Programs
• Scar and Pain Management
• Edema Control
• Manual Therapy Desensitization

When to See a Doctor for Elbow Pain

Elbow pain is typically short-term and not a cause for concern. These can usually be treated with rest, ice therapy, medication and physical therapy. If you are experiencing elbow pain, give us a call today (719) 539-3626.