Diagnostics

At the beginning of every diagnostic procedure, the first step is an exact anamnesis. In this context, it is particularly important to find out about possible previous injuries and diseases in the area of the elbow, existing underlying diseases as well as a precise survey of existing complaints. This is followed by a clinical examination of the joint.

During this examination, the physician first looks for all externally recognizable signs of injury or disease, such as swelling, malpositions in the joint axis or hematomas. Then the most important structures of the joint are scanned and checked for pain under pressure and the mobility of the joint is tested. The combination of anamnesis and examination usually provides sufficient suspicion of the cause of the pain. To further substantiate the suspicion, imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI) is usually performed: other helpful measures can also include a puncture of the synovial fluid or blood analyses.

Therapy

Depending on the variety of causes and the various treatment options, the time until complete healing can vary greatly. In general, joint problems usually take a considerably longer time than other injuries until they are completely healed. However, in most cases a significant improvement of the symptoms can be achieved very quickly by a combination of the different types of therapy.

All articles in this series: