Elbow Conditions

Types of Elbow Condition

Types of Pain

Olecranon Bursitis

A bursa is a small, thin fluid filled sac which prevents friction between structures. Normally the bursa remains flat, but if irritated more fluid will accumulate and cause bursitis. It can be caused by direct trauma, or prolonged pressure e.g. leaning on the elbow. Other medical conditions which are associated with olecranon bursitis are rheumatoid arthritis and gout

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Elbow Osteoarthritis

Generally seen in those aged over 65 years, can be brought on by previous surgery, previous trauma (e.g. fracture), inflammatory condition (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis) or overuse injuries. There is often a poor link between changes visible on an x-ray and symptoms of osteoarthritis; minimal changes can be associated with a lot of pain, or modest structural changes to joints can occur with minimal accompanying symptoms. Osteoarthritis is a condition that results from a loss of cartilage with subsequent remodelling of adjacent bone and subsequent inflammation. It is some of these changes in the joint structure that can then be seen on x-ray. It is a dynamic process that involves all joint tissues: the bones, cartilage, joint capsule, lubricating fluid and surrounding muscles. Sometimes the altered joint structure compensates for the changes and does not cause pain. It’s when the natural repair process cannot compensate enough that the joint starts to become painful.

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Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Also known as golfers elbow is an overload of the tendon which attaches to the medial epicondyle which is a bony prominence on the inside of the elbow. Tendon attaches muscle to bone which is why pain can also radiate into the forearm muscle on activity. Generally affects those aged 30-50 years. Medial epicondylitis is less common than lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), it is more common in those with type 2 diabetes and those who smoke.

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Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Also known as tennis elbow is an overload of the tendon which attaches to the lateral epicondyle which is a bony prominence on the outside of the elbow. Tendon attaches muscle to bone which is why pain can also radiate into the forearm muscle on activity. Generally affects those aged 30-50 years.

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