Elbow Pain

Call Atlanta Hand Specialist About Treatment for Elbow Pain and Discomfort.

The elbow functions as a hinge for your arm, allowing movement and ease of range. The elbow is a joint, composed of a complex set of bones and muscles, like the biceps and triceps. When these muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones are injured or irritated, it can cause mild to severe elbow pain. Read on to learn more about elbow pain and how to seek treatment at Atlanta Hand Specialist in metro Atlanta.

What Causes Elbow Pain?

Because elbow pain is a general term, there are a number of factors that may be the culprit. Usually causes of elbow pain are related to injuries caused by sports or accidents, and sometimes disease.

Common causes of elbow pain include:

• Tendonitis
• Olecranon Bursitis
• A sprained or broken elbow
• Various forms of arthritis
• Cellulitis
• Tumors
• Nerve entrapment
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer’s elbow
• Dislocation
• Radial Tunnel Syndrome
• Overuse due to occupation or hobby

Symptoms of Elbow Pain

While symptoms vary on a scale from mild to severe, many of the signs and indicators are the same. Patients should see a doctor if:

• There is severe pain present in the joint
• Swelling or bruising occurs
• You have trouble moving your arm normally
• Pain doesn’t improve after a few days
• Pain is present even when your elbow is not in motion

Patients should seek immediate emergency care if there are signs of a deformity in the elbow, or if bone is protruding.

Elbow Pain Diagnosis & Treatments

Causes of elbow pain can be diagnosed several ways, through techniques like physical exams, X-rays, CT scan, MRI, EMG, and sometimes biopsy if fluid is present in the joint.

Treatment plans differ depending on a patient’s diagnosis. Usually, elbow pain is not serious and can be treated at home with rest, application of ice, compression bandages, anti-inflammatory medications, and elevating the elbow to reduce swelling.

If hospitalization or a doctor’s visit is necessary, in-office treatments range from steroid injections and medications to surgery.

Schedule an Appointment with Atlanta Hand Specialist About Elbow Pain

If you have concerns or are experiencing persistent pain in your elbow, Atlanta Hand Specialist can help. Call one of our multiple Atlanta area locations in Smyrna, Marietta, Canton, East Cobb, and Douglasville. Schedule an appointment online, or call our office at (770) 333-7888.