Elbow pain is a common problem that can range from mild to severe. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). The pain may be felt in the elbow joint itself or in the surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It may also radiate to other parts of the body, such as the wrist, hand, or arm.
There are many potential causes of elbow pain, including injuries, overuse, and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. Some common symptoms of elbow pain include:
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Dull, aching pain
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Sharp, shooting pain
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Stiffness or difficulty moving the elbow
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Swelling or tenderness
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Weakness in the arm or hand
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There are several common elbow issues that people may experience. Some of the most common include:
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Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): This is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, often as a result of repetitive arm movements.
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Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis): This is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, often as a result of repetitive arm movements.
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Osteoarthritis: This is a type of degenerative joint disease that can affect the elbow joint, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.
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Fractures: Elbow fractures can occur as a result of an injury, such as a fall or car accident. They can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm.
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Bursitis: This is an inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs) in the elbow, which can cause pain and swelling.