The elbow joint is a very stable joint and so it is not easily injured, but here are a few things to look out for:
Tennis Elbow
This is by far the most common elbow complaint, although is not that often caused by playing tennis! It is an overuse injury of the wrist extensor muscles so activities such as DIY (e.g. painting and screwdriving) tend to be common culprits! It is also important to consider is there is any involvement from the next, as sometimes an impingement of the radial nerve at the neck can produce similar symptoms to Tennis Elbow.
Symptoms include:
- Pain on and around the outer bone of the elbow.
- Pain on resisted wrist and middle finger extension.
- Tender to touch just below the bone.
More information on Tennis Elbow
Golfer's Elbow
Golfer's elbow is a similar condition to Tennis Elbow in the way it occurs, but it is usually repetitive wrist flexion which stirs it up (this is bending the wrist so the fingers point down). The pain is also located on the inside of the elbow, rather than the outside. It is less frequent than tennis elbow.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain on the side of the elbow
- Pain develops gradually and gets worse.
- Pain on resisted wrist flexion.
More information on Golfer's Elbow.
Medial Ligament Injury
The Medial (or Ulnar) Collateral Ligament is situated on the inside of the elbow joint. It is frequently injured as a result of either a direct force which over stretches the ligament, or through repetitive throwing forces.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain on the inside of the elbow.
- Tenderness when touching this area.
- Pain and or instability when stressing the ligament (pushing the forearm laterally).
More information on Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury.
Olecranon Bursitis
This condition is sometimes also known as students elbow. It can occur either due to repetitive leaning on the elbow (such as when studying!) or by a direct impact. There is a bursa (sack of fluid) at the tip of the elbow which can become swollen and inflamed.
Symptoms may include:
- A large swelling at the tip of the elbow, sometimes as large as an egg!
- Reduced movement at the elbow.
More information on Olecranon Bursitis.
Visit www.sportsinjuryclinic.net for further information on these and more elbow injuries.