Elbow pain is a common problem that can occur at any age. The high frequency of elbow-related complaints is largely due to the complex structure of the joint and the constant demands placed on the upper limbs during daily activities.
The elbow joint is involved in almost every movement of the arm — whether lifting objects, working, exercising, or simply leaning on the hand. As a result, any disruption in elbow function can significantly affect quality of life.
Anatomy of the Elbow Joint
The elbow is a complex joint formed by the connection of three bones:
Humerus
Ulna
Radius
These bones are enclosed within a shared joint capsule and function together as a single mechanism that allows bending, straightening, and rotational movements of the forearm.
Because of this complex anatomy, even minor damage to joint structures can lead to significant pain and restricted movement.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Elbow pain may result from a wide range of conditions, from minor injuries to chronic joint disorders.
Injuries
Some of the most common causes include:
Bruises and contusions
Ligament sprains
Sports injuries
Joint overuse
Heavy lifting
After an injury, patients may experience:
Pain
Swelling
Limited range of motion
Joint stiffness
In cases of ligament tears, even small movements can trigger severe pain.
Medical Conditions That Cause Elbow Pain
Pain in the elbow may also be associated with various musculoskeletal disorders, including:
Bursitis
Synovial chondromatosis
Tendonitis
Epicondylitis
Osteoarthritis
Chondrocalcinosis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Gout
Post-traumatic joint complications
Improper bone healing after fractures
Elbow Arthritis
People with elbow arthritis often report:
Persistent aching pain
Morning stiffness
Increased symptoms during cold weather or weather changes
Inflammation may affect not only the elbow but also:
The hands
The wrists
Other joints of the upper extremities
Arthritis is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 65.
Risk Factors for Arthritis
Several factors increase the likelihood of developing arthritis:
Metabolic disorders
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Diabetes mellitus
Allergic diseases
Gout
Gastrointestinal disorders
Certain oncological conditions
Without timely treatment, arthritis can lead to significant joint dysfunction and disability.
Epicondylitis: The Most Common Cause of Elbow Pain
One of the most frequent causes of elbow pain is epicondylitis.
Symptoms typically occur:
During physical activity
While rotating the forearm
When lifting objects
During sports participation
The condition most often affects the tendons and muscles attached to the outer part of the humerus.
Over time, epicondylitis may contribute to:
Tendon inflammation
Periostitis
Bursitis
Tennis Elbow
Lateral epicondylitis is commonly known as "tennis elbow."
However, the condition is not limited to athletes.
High-risk groups include:
Men between 30 and 50 years of age
Manual laborers
Workers performing repetitive arm movements
Amateur and professional athletes
Common symptoms include:
Pain on the outer side of the elbow
Burning sensations
Reduced grip strength
Restricted movement
Without treatment, symptoms often become progressively worse.
Pain During Elbow Flexion and Extension
Pain when bending or straightening the elbow is particularly common among people who repeatedly perform similar arm movements, such as:
Computer users
Massage therapists
Tennis and golf players
Individuals performing repetitive manual tasks
Symptoms usually develop gradually and become more pronounced over time.
Why the Right Elbow Is More Commonly Affected
For most people, the right arm is dominant and therefore experiences greater physical stress.
Studies show that approximately 65–70% of overuse-related elbow injuries and cases of epicondylitis affect the right elbow.
Among left-handed individuals, similar problems are more commonly observed on the left side.
Diagnosis
Successful treatment begins with identifying the exact cause of pain.
Clinical Examination
A specialist evaluates:
Range of motion
Pain location
Muscle and ligament condition
Presence of swelling or deformity
X-Ray Examination
X-rays can help identify:
Fractures
Osteoarthritis
Joint deformities
Post-traumatic changes
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is useful for assessing:
Ligaments
Tendons
Cartilage
Joint capsule structures
Treatment of Elbow Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
Acute Injuries
Patients should consult a trauma specialist.
Additional investigations may include:
X-rays
MRI scans
Other diagnostic procedures
Chronic Elbow Pain
For long-term symptoms, consultation with a kinesitherapy physician or orthopedic specialist is recommended.
Following assessment, an individualized treatment plan is developed.
Conservative Treatment
In most cases, non-surgical treatment is recommended and may include:
Anti-inflammatory medications
Pain-relieving therapies
Physiotherapy
Therapeutic exercise
Rehabilitation procedures
The primary goals are to:
Reduce pain
Slow disease progression
Preserve joint function
Avoid surgery whenever possible
Kinesitherapy According to the Bubnovsky Method
At the Bubnovsky Centers, treatment is based on the principles of kinesitherapy — restoring joint function through properly selected physical exercises.
Before treatment begins, patients undergo:
Myofascial assessment
Functional testing
Review of imaging and diagnostic results
Based on these findings, an individualized rehabilitation program is created.
Main Goals of Kinesitherapy
Correcting muscle imbalances
Improving blood circulation
Restoring joint mobility
Strengthening muscles and ligaments
Preventing further tissue damage
Regular training sessions help reduce pain, improve arm function, and lower the risk of complications.
Preventing Elbow Pain
To maintain healthy elbow joints, it is recommended to:
Avoid excessive strain
Warm up before exercise
Strengthen the arm muscles
Take breaks during repetitive work
Treat injuries promptly
Maintain regular physical activity
The earlier the cause of pain is identified and treated, the greater the likelihood of fully restoring elbow function and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Elbow Rehabilitation at the Bubnovsky Center in Riga
The Bubnovsky Center in Riga provides individualized rehabilitation programs for patients with elbow pain, sports injuries, tendon disorders, and chronic joint conditions.
Through comprehensive assessment and movement-based therapy, specialists help patients restore mobility, reduce pain, strengthen supporting muscles, and return to their normal daily activities safely and effectively.