Diagnosis
The diagnosis is first made by the doctor by asking specifically about the patient’s symptoms, previous illnesses and the activity he/she has performed. In addition, the elbow is examined closely, paying particular attention to changes such as redness, swelling and malpositioning. A palpation of the joint and a test of mobility provides further insight into the type and severity of the disease. In rare, unclear cases or in the case of long-term, severe complaints, an X-ray can be taken for a more precise view of the damage.
Therapy options
The treatment of burning in the elbow depends on the cause of the disease. For every cause of inflammation, it is important to immobilize and elevate the affected arm. In addition, the arm should be carefully cooled.
This stops the inflammation process and the redness, swelling and pain are reduced. This therapy is usually sufficient for mild inflammation of the elbow, for example due to overstrain. In addition, if the symptoms persist, medication can be used to relieve the pain and help against the inflammation.
Ibuprofen or diclofenac are particularly recommended in this case. Pre-existing conditions such as gout, arthrosis or rheumatism should also be treated causally with appropriate therapy. If the complaints increase continuously, this may also be due to the fact that the affected area has become infected with bacteria.
In this case the pathogens must be combated and killed with an antibiotic. A slight irritation of the ulnar nerve usually improves quickly. If the damage is more severe, a suture of the nerve is performed in rare cases. .
Duration of illness
The duration of burning in the elbow can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause. If a short-term slight overloading leads to an inflammation, this can heal after a few days by taking it easy and cooling it down. If the area has become infected or if the elbow continues to be overstressed, the complaints last considerably longer.
