Elbow Pain

The elbow is a joint which can easily be taken for granted. Your elbows are almost constantly in motion or held in tension. Elbow pain is not as frequently seen in a chiropractic as shoulder or wrist pain, but it can be equally as debilitating.

The elbow is a complex region of multiple joints. Three bones meet at the elbow: the humerus in the arm, and the ulna and radius in the forearm. A variety of muscles and specialized ligaments connect these bones to each other. Inflammation or trauma to any of these structures can cause pain.

Since there are so many different areas where pain can arise, there are many condition names depending on the type and location of pain. Golfer's elbow usually occurs on the inside of the elbow; tennis elbow is on the outside of the elbow. Little children whose arms are suddenly yanked may get nursemaid's elbow. Fibromyalgia causes very specific points of pain at the elbow.

How We Can Help Your Elbow Pain

If your elbow discomfort is the result of bony misalignment, arthritis, or stress, your arm may need a chiropractic adjustment. The gentle adjustment provided by the Activator instrument has accomplished amazing results in our office for elbow complaints. Uncomplicated elbow pain can often completely disappear in just one or two visits.

If the discomfort is a result of tendonitis or bursitis, or muscular strain, a chiropractor can provide excellent conservative care. Many therapies available at Johnson Family Chiropractic can complement chiropractic management of elbow pain. Cold laser therapy has been shown to be effective in medial and lateral epicondylitis. Therapeutic ultrasound has also obtained great results with a variety of elbow conditions, including tendonitis and bursitis.

If your elbow problems are the result of a more serious cause, Dr. Johnson will arrive at a diagnosis and refer you to the right doctor for your particular condition.

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Causes

- tendonitis
- bursitis
- fibromyalgia
- muscle trigger points
- subluxation
- nerve irritation from a neck condition
- arthritis
- osteochondrosis dissecans
- dislocation
- cellulitis
- infection
- fracture

Prevention

- if an activity (such as a sport or using a screwdriver) causes your elbow pain, limit the amount of time for that activity
- use ice after the activity to prevent swelling and pain
- wear an elbow band over an injured area when performing the activity
- perform regular stretching and strengthening exercises (ask Dr. Johnson)
- do not lift a child by the arms