Elbow Pain
Elbow pain is more often caused by overuse, then by injury or trauma. Elbow pain can make it difficult to complete activities of daily living, restricting both work and leisure activities.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is this condition?
While biomechanics allow the shoulder joint to move in nearly every direction, this flexibility makes this joint susceptible to pain and injury. Typically, increased joint mobility couples with increased instability and impingement of the soft tissue or bony structures. This is the root cause of most shoulder pain. Activities that affect biomechanics include the lifting of heavy objects, computer work, repetitive movements, accidents, falls, blows to the body or shoulder, normal aging, and everyday wear and tear.
Why do children develop elbow pain?
Elbow conditions affect young children as well. Sometimes, children develop “nursemaid’s elbow,” which occurs by pulling a straightened arm. The bones are stretched apart momentarily and a ligament slips in between the bones. The ligament becomes trapped when the bones snap back into place. This causes acute pain. Children usually refuse to use the arm, but often cry with any attempt to bend or straighten the elbow. This condition is an elbow subluxation. The child needs to see a qualified physician immediately as time is a factor in recovery.
What are causes of this condition?
Elbow pain common in people who perform repetitive maneuvers with their arms or hands. In particular, overuse of the muscles of the wrist in repetitive or prolonged activities such as gripping, lifting and even pinching are contributing factors. Examples of overuse activities are gardening, assembly line work, lifting, swinging a golf club, baseball bat or tennis racquet and using a screwdriver or power tools. Some people develop pain after long hours of keyboard work or driving. Pain is a direct result of ergonomic challenges, improper posture or improper arm positioning.
What are common treatments for this condition?
Elbow fracture and dislocation is considered a medical emergency and urgent care may be warranted. All treatment strategies are dependent upon condition. Each strategy has a unique protocol including manipulation, exercise, education and activity modifications. Our chiropractic physicians also have extensive training in bracing and use of homeopathic and nutraceuticals to support healing.
At Advanced Physical Medicine & Therapy our staff of providers can properly diagnose your elbow condition and develop an appropriate treatment to improve your condition. Schedule an appointment with our office at (847)222-9060. We look forward to helping you achieve a quick recovery.