Definition
Pain is a very subjective sensation, which is described differently by each person. For example, the symptoms of “elbow pain” can range from an unpleasant feeling of pressure in the area of the joint to the strongest sting with every movement. The pain can occur suddenly, as a result of a certain movement, or it can be chronic. Often this characteristic already gives a first indication of the cause of pain.
Causes
The causes of pain in the elbow are very diverse. In most cases, the complaints are based on incorrect or excessive strain on the affected arm. This leads to damage to the structures involved in the joint.
In addition to injuries to the ligaments, muscle tendons, bones and cartilage, these can also be inflammatory processes and the constriction of various nerves. These damages ultimately cause the pain. Further information on the topic of inflammation in the joint can be found here.
Golf elbow
In the case of the so-called golfer’s elbow, epicondylitis humeri ulnaris, the pain originates from the common originating tendon of the hand and finger flexors at the inner elbow. As the name suggests, the pain is usually the result of overstrain, which often occurs during club sports such as golf. However, everyday stress, especially one-sided and repetitive strain, can also trigger the pain.
As a result of overloading, the smallest tears and injuries to the tendon occur again and again. The body tries to repair these by means of an inflammatory reaction. In the course of such an inflammation, the body releases a multitude of messenger substances in the tissue, which among other things also cause the pain.
The cause of the pain is therefore not the actual injuries, but the repair of these and a protective mechanism of the body to prevent further damage. Pain is mainly caused by bending the hand, especially against resistance, as well as direct pressure on the inner elbow. The pain can be localized and radiate along the muscles into the entire forearm.
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