04 Jul ELBOW PAIN
Elbow pain can affect one’s quality of life and completion of daily activities. There is a common misconception that the elbow is an easy joint to treat. However, given that the elbow is a complex joint that allows and controls the movement of the arm, there are many problems that can occur in the elbow, from sport injuries or issues that start from the neck and shoulder.
Elbow pain is often caused by overuse. Many sports, hobbies and jobs require repetitive hand, wrist or arm movements. Arthritis or nerve damage can also be a cause of pain. Some of the most common causes of elbow pain include:
- a broken arm
- inflammation in the joint (bursitis).
- a dislocated elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Osteoarthritis(a disease that causes the bones to become brittle)
- Osteochondritis dissecans (due to a lack of blood flow, the bones in the joint under the cartilage become weak).
- Rheumatoid arthritis(inflammatory joint disease)
- Sprains
- Stress fractures
- Tendinitis
- Tennis elbow
- Throwing injuries
- Trapped nerves
When you book an appointment for osteopathic treatment for your elbow pain, the practitioner will begin by conducting an exam to identify the cause of the pain. A series of tests will be performed to identify restrictions in sensation and/or muscle function. If needed, additional tests will be done to see if there are any bone or nerve abnormalities.
With the onset of elbow pain, the following symptoms may often present:
- Pain
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Restricted movement
- Weakened muscles
- A tingling sensation in the fingers or hands
How Elbow Pain Is Treated:
Osteopathy uses techniques such as massage, mobilisation and manipulation when treating the elbow joint. Your osteopath will also guide you through strengthening and range of motion exercises, to help reduce the pain and discomfort as well as to improve the mobility of the joint. If there is any nerve damage, gentle stretching can be done to reduce nerve compression and increase blood flow to the area. Overall, osteopathy is a holistic approach to treating, improving and restoring bodily functions.
You may also use the PRICE method at home to help reduce any discomfort felt at the joint:
- Protect –Keep the area from getting further injured.
- Rest – Avoid the activity that caused your injury.
- Ice –Place an ice pack on the sore area for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day.
- Compression –Use a compression bandage to reduce swelling.
- Elevation –Keep your arm elevated to help reduce swelling.
You can try to prevent elbow injuries by doing the following:
- Correcting improper sports techniques.
- Ensuring you have the proper grip on sports equipment.
- Make sure to warm up and stretch correctly.
- Use elbow padding when required.
- When you are in a car, always wear a seatbelt.
- If you drink alcohol, do not drink too much.
- Slow down. Accidents are more likely to happen when you hurry.
At OsteoVision we are able to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Our team of specialists are always available to assist you and offer advice. Please contact us if you would like to discuss your symptoms, have any questions, would like to book an appointment or require more information about your condition.
Call: 03303 904300
Email: info@osteovision.life
You can also book an appointment online at www.osteovision.life