Pain in Elbow and Forearm

The most common elbow / forearm symptoms and injuries are what are traditionally known as ‘Tennis elbow’ and ‘Golfers elbow’. These labels are somewhat inappropriate as they are actually more common in non-tennis/golf players.

‘Tennis elbow’ presents as pain on the outside of the elbow that can spread into the muscles on the back of the forearm. The pathology is one of degeneration of the tendon (tendinosis) of one of the forearm muscles near where it attaches to the elbow. ‘Golfers elbow’ is essentially the same problem but in a tendon / muscle near where it attaches to the inside of the elbow.

Most commonly these problems develop gradually due to overload of the forearm musculature, and common underlying causes for this overload are increased strain on the forearm musculature secondary to poor control of the scapula, recent changes in training or sporting equipment (e.g. tennis racket grip), and adverse workstation / desk environment (e.g. a dropped wrist position whilst typing.

It is also extremely common for pain to be referred from the neck to the elbow and forearm. This type of problem can masquerade as a ‘tennis / golfers elbow’ and is often the primary source of work related upper limb disorders (WRULD). Poor sitting posture (especially head/neck position), an adverse workstation / desk environment, and altered muscular control of the head/neck and shoulder blade regions are the most common underlying causes.

Interestingly recent research points towards subtle nerve irritation (perhaps as a result of a neck problem) being the pre-cursor to the tendon degeneration responsible for ‘Tennis’ and ‘Golfers’ elbow, thus providing evidence of a link between the neck and these injuries.

Other injuries commonly seen include fractures (post-operatively), medial collateral ligament injuries, and compartment syndromes of the forearm.

Tennis elbow treatment and/or treatment of elbow / forearm pain as always involves identifying and treating the underlying causes using a combination of manual therapy, posture correction, and specific exercises to improve muscle control of the relevant regions. Ergonomic assessment is also invaluable to eliminate any workstation / desk issues as a potential cause of the symptoms.

In addition to treating pain in the elbow and forearm pain, we also offer other physiotherapy courses to ease pain and aid relief. For more information please contact us today.