Elbow pain is a common issue, especially for those who rely heavily on their forearms for work or hobbies. While tennis and golf are notorious for elbow strain, other activities like weightlifting, painting, and even using certain tools can irritate the muscles and tendons supporting the elbow joint.

Ignoring elbow pain can significantly worsen your condition and limit your arm function. Here at Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics, Dr. Jeff Hall has extensive experience treating elbow overuse injuries, including golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow. Today we will help you understand these conditions and the treatment options we offer.

Understanding Your Elbow Anatomy

The elbow joint is where the upper arm bone (humerus) meets the two lower arm bones (ulna and radius). The humerus has two bony bumps called epicondyles: the lateral epicondyle (outer elbow) and the medial epicondyle (inner elbow). Muscles and tendons that bend and straighten your elbow attach to these epicondyles.

Overuse of the forearm muscles can irritate and inflame these tendons, leading to elbow pain, stiffness, tenderness, and warmth. This can significantly limit your range of motion and make everyday activities like lifting or grasping objects difficult.

Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow

Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) occurs when irritation and inflammation develop around the medial epicondyle (inner elbow). Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) involves inflammation around the lateral epicondyle (outer elbow).

These nicknames reflect the activities that typically cause them: golfing motions stress the inner elbow, while tennis strokes put strain on the outer elbow. In addition to elbow pain, you may experience:

• Forearm pain
• Pain while grasping or using your hands
• Pain while lifting objects

Untreated elbow pain can lead to permanent muscle weakness or nerve damage.

Treating Elbow Pain at Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics

Our doctor, Dr. Jeff Hall, will diagnose your elbow condition through a comprehensive examination and potentially diagnostic imaging. Treatment typically starts with conservative measures like:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Ice therapy
• Activity modification and rest
• Medical braces for support and pain relief
• Physical therapy to improve elbow function and strengthen your forearm

For certain injuries, Dr. Hall may recommend innovative ultrasound therapy to promote tissue healing. Most elbow overuse injuries respond well to these treatments.

Elbow pain can significantly impact your daily life. Don’t wait to seek treatment. At Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics, we have the expertise and treatment options to help you get back to using your arm pain-free.

Call us today to schedule an appointment!

423-499-0003