Elbow Pain

Elbow Pain is most commonly caused by overuse of the tendons of the forearm which attach to either side of the elbow and normally resolves over time.

Carrying out simple exercises or by adapting your movements, avoiding lifing heavy weights, using epicondylar supports (also known as Tennis or Golfer's elbow brace), and applying ice or heat packs can help to ease pain and improve movements.

If the pain doesn’t improve within 6-12 weeks, you may need to seek further advice and can refer to physiotherapy through the self referral method.

It is important to contact your medical practice if:

• Your elbow is hot, red and/or swollen - this may be a sign of infection
• Your elbow pain was due to a fall or trauma or you think you have broken your elbow
• You have any persistent tingling or numbness further down your arm or in your hand.

Golfer’s Elbow

What is Golfer's elbow?

Golfer's elbow occurs when the tendons that attach to the inside of your elbow become irritated and inflamed. This occurs when and increased force or load is applied and the tendons struggle to handle. This condition shouldn't cause any lasting damage and does not lead to arthritis. 

What are the symptoms?

The main symptoms of golfer's elbow are: 

• pain at the inside of your elbow
• tenderness on pressing the inside of your elbow
• pain on lifting heavier items
• pain on bending your wrist
• pain and weakness on gripping

NHS Borders Golfer's Elbow Leaflet provides more information and exercises that may help. 

 

Tennis Elbow

What is Tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow occus when the tendons that attach to the outside of your elbow becomes irritated and inflamed. This usually occurs with an increased load that is applied (either through repetitive activity or a one-off activity) that the tendons struggle to handle. This condition shouldn't cause any lasting damage and doesn't lead to arthritis. 

What are the symptoms?

• Pain at the outside of the elbow
• tenderness on pressing the outside of your elbow
• pain in the top of the forearm
• pain on gripping or twisting
• pain when bending the wrist backwards

This Tennis Elbow Webpage provides more information and exercises that may help.