Your elbow likely hurts when you bend it due to tendinitis, which is often caused by overuse. The repetitive movements of daily tasks, household work, or sports like golf or tennis can lead to tendinitis, affecting the muscles around your elbow.
Understanding Tendinitis and Elbow Pain
Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, the tissue that connects muscles to bones. In the elbow, this typically arises from repeated motions that strain the tendons. The pain associated with tendinitis can radiate from the elbow to the upper arm or down into the lower arm.
Common Causes
Here are some common reasons you might develop tendinitis and elbow pain:
- Repetitive Motions: Activities that involve repeated bending or straightening of the elbow, such as:
- Typing
- Gardening
- Assembly line work
- Painting
- Sports: Certain sports that involve throwing or swinging motions are common culprits:
- Tennis
- Golf
- Baseball
- Weightlifting
- Everyday Activities: Even regular household tasks can contribute:
- Cleaning
- Cooking
- Hammering
Symptoms of Elbow Tendinitis
The primary symptom is pain, especially when bending or straightening the elbow. You may also experience:
- Tenderness: Pain to the touch around the elbow joint.
- Stiffness: Limited movement in the elbow joint.
- Weakness: Reduced grip strength or difficulty lifting objects.
Managing Elbow Pain
If you're experiencing elbow pain, consider these steps:
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your pain.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Over-the-counter Pain Relief: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.
- Adjust Your Activities: Modify how you perform certain movements to reduce stress on the elbow.
It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if the pain is severe or persistent, as they may recommend further treatment options.
