Both conditions result from repetitive motions—such as gripping, lifting, or swinging—that strain the tendons over time. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and weakness in the forearm and hand. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, and in more persistent cases, injections or surgical intervention.

Radial Tunnel Syndrome results in aching or burning pain along the top of the forearm, often worsened by repetitive arm and wrist movements. Unlike tennis elbow, which affects the outer elbow, radial tunnel syndrome pain is usually located a few inches farther down the forearm and may be accompanied by weakness, but not numbness. Treatment includes rest, activity modification, splinting, physical therapy, and in persistent cases, surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the nerve.

This injury often results from a sudden, forceful load on the elbow, such as lifting a heavy object. Symptoms include a sudden sharp pain in the front of the elbow, swelling, bruising, and weakness in bending the elbow or rotating the forearm. A visible bulge in the upper arm may also appear due to the tendon retracting. Prompt medical evaluation is important, and treatment typically involves surgical repair to restore strength and function, especially in active individuals.

The Triceps Tendon Tears typically occurs due to a sudden, forceful impact or heavy lifting, and may be accompanied by a popping sound, immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty straightening the elbow. In complete tears, a gap may be felt near the back of the elbow, and strength is significantly reduced. Treatment depends on the severity but often involves surgical repair followed by physical therapy to restore full arm strength and function.

One of the most common causes of a “Snapping Elbow” is a Plica. A Plica is an inflamed and therefore enlarged portion of the elbow’s joint lining that catches in between the bones of the elbow during motion. A Plica can be caused by anything that inflames the elbow, either a traumatic injury or overuse.

These injuries are often caused by falls, direct impact, or trauma and can result in pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty moving the arm. In some cases, there may be visible deformity or numbness if nerves are affected. Prompt evaluation with imaging is essential to determine the severity and appropriate treatment, which may include immobilization, physical therapy, or surgical repair to restore joint stability and function.

can result from repeated pressure, trauma, infection, or underlying conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms often include visible swelling at the back of the elbow, pain with movement or pressure, and, in some cases, warmth or redness if infection is present. Treatment may involve rest, compression, anti-inflammatory medications, aspiration of fluid, or antibiotics if infection is suspected. In persistent or severe cases, surgical removal of the bursa may be necessary.

These injuries can result from acute trauma or repetitive stress, such as throwing or lifting, and are frequently seen in athletes. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, instability, and reduced range of motion, particularly during activities that put stress on the elbow joint. Diagnosis often requires imaging and physical examination. Treatment ranges from rest, bracing, and physical therapy to surgical reconstruction in more severe or chronic cases to restore stability and prevent long-term joint dysfunction.

can result from trauma, surgery, prolonged immobilization, arthritis, or scar tissue formation within the joint. Symptoms may include tightness, reduced flexibility, and discomfort during movement. Elbow stiffness can significantly affect daily activities and arm function. Treatment options include physical therapy, splinting, and, in more severe cases, surgical intervention to release contracted tissues and restore mobility. Early diagnosis and management are key to preventing long-term limitations.

Can result from wear and tear over time (osteoarthritis), previous injuries, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals with elbow arthritis may experience difficulty with tasks that involve bending or straightening the arm, as well as locking or grinding sensations. Treatment often begins with non-surgical options such as medications, activity modification, and physical therapy, while advanced cases may benefit from surgical procedures to relieve pain and improve function.

Elbow pain can be caused by many disorders: Tennis Elbow, Golfers Elbow, Plicas, Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD), fractures, ligament injuries, arthritis, and nerve entrapment’s.  As many of these conditions have been well-covered in other sections of this website.