Localization of the pain

In addition to the character of the pain, the localization of the pain also says a lot about the underlying causes. In most cases the treatment is purely conservative.Adequate immobilization and protection of the overstrained tendons is elementary. But physiotherapy is also an important part of therapy: patients learn stretching exercises for the flexor muscles and strengthening exercises for the extensor muscles.

In addition, massages in the area of the tendon attachments loosen the surrounding muscles, improve blood circulation and accelerate healing.

If the elbow pain occurs predominantly on the left side, in the area of the bony prominence, this is an indication of a so-called epicondylitis humeri ulnaris/medialis (=golfer’s elbow). This clinical picture is a tendon disease that typically occurs as a result of an overload reaction; for example, repeated lifting of heavy loads or repeated unilateral movements.
In contrast to tennis elbow, golf elbow affects the muscles of the forearm flexor.
Closing the fist or bending the forearm, especially against resistance, has a pain-increasing effect. Many affected persons additionally report a swelling of the elbow and possibly also the forearm, a reduction in strength and difficulties in fine motor skills.

Professionals who work at a desk are often affected by elbow pain. Although they are not thought to be exposed to too much physical strain, desk work can cause a number of health problems.

Elbow pain at the desk is often caused by the fact that the person concerned supports himself with his elbows on the hard table top. This behavior can irritate the bursa between the bone and the skin, resulting in an inflammation of the bursa in the elbow (bursitis). The elbow is then slightly swollen, reddened, overheated and hurts when moving.

The inflammation usually subsides on its own, but the elbow must be immobilized and protected as much as possible. If the course of the disease is severe, pain-relieving medication is used. Another clinical picture that manifests itself through elbow pain is the so-called RSI syndrome (Repetitive Strain Injury; mouse arm). It is caused by monotonous movements carried out over a long period of time, such as operating the computer keyboard and mouse. The overload syndrome causes pain in the hand, wrist and elbow.