ELBOW / WRIST
The elbow can present many challenges for a physical therapist due to the chronicity of some elbow-related conditions. Tennis elbow is one of the more challenging conditions to treat and is too common in the digital age. Though named after a popular racket sport, I can only remember two patients I have treated over 11 years who dealt with tennis elbow AND played tennis. This overuse condition can occur without ever picking up a racket and often occurs after a dramatic and sudden increase in repetitive gripping (i.e., painting walls or packing and moving boxes). Other common elbow conditions include fractures of the radius or ulna bones. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition we have seen the most in the wrist.
Injures We Treat the Most
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis):
This condition involves inflammation or microtears in the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow, often due to repetitive wrist and arm motions, resulting in pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow.
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow involves inflammation or microtears in the tendons that attach to the inner part of the elbow, typically caused by repetitive gripping or swinging motions, leading to pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow.
Elbow Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa sacs located near the elbow joint can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness, often aggravated by leaning on the elbow or repetitive arm movements.
Elbow Fracture
Fractures of the bones in the elbow, such as the radius or ulna, can occur due to falls, sports injuries, or trauma, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the elbow.
Olecranon Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa sac located at the tip of the elbow (olecranon) can result in a swollen, tender bump at the back of the elbow, often caused by repetitive pressure or direct trauma.
Elbow Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendons in the elbow, such as the biceps tendon or the tendons of the forearm muscles, can cause pain and stiffness, especially with activities that involve gripping or lifting.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, cubital tunnel syndrome involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the hand and fingers.
Elbow Osteoarthritis
Like other joints, the elbow can develop arthritis, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, particularly during activities that require bending and straightening the elbow.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed or irritated, resulting in a predictable pattern of numbness and tingling involving mostly the index finger, middle finger, thumb, and a portion of the ring finger. Fractured or dislocated fingers are another common hand injury and are usually treated with basic splinting or hard casting to allow proper and complete healing.
Get Relief Now
If you or a family member are dealing with any of the above and the symptoms have not improved in more than three weeks, chances are you would greatly benefit from at least one formal visit with a licensed physical therapist. While most aches and pains do improve on their own, persistent issues often require formal evaluation from a musculoskeletal expert.