This is an overview of 10 common elbow problems. But, let’s start with a definition.
What is the Elbow?
The elbow is a complex hinge joint that connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the two bones of the forearm (radius and ulna).
It allows for the bending and straightening of the arm (flexion and extension), as well as the rotation of the forearm to turn the palm up or down (pronation and supination).
Structurally, the elbow relies on a network of ligaments, tendons, and muscles to remain stable. Smooth articular cartilage coats the bone ends to ensure fluid, frictionless movement, while fluid-filled sacs called bursae cushion the friction points between bones and overlying soft tissues.
What it is
Inflammation, micro-tearing, or degeneration of the tendons that join your forearm muscles to the outside of your elbow. Despite its name, it is most frequently triggered by repetitive wrist extension and gripping in everyday activities, such as typing, painting, or using hand tools.
Common signs
A persistent, burning ache on the outer bump of the elbow (lateral epicondyle) that radiates down the forearm. Pain typically intensifies when shaking hands, turning doorknobs, or lifting objects.
When to Worry
The pain becomes severe enough to disrupt your sleep or prevents you from lifting light objects like a cup of tea
You experience a noticeable loss of grip strength or sudden dropping of items
The outer elbow becomes visibly red, hot, or swollen, suggesting an acute inflammatory or infectious process
When to See a Doctor
Soon. To confirm the diagnosis, exclude nerve compression, and discuss conservative treatments like physiotherapy, bracing, or topical anti-inflammatories.
What it is
An overuse injury affecting the tendons that attach the forearm flexor muscles to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. It is caused by repetitive wrist flexion, twisting, or forceful gripping activities.
Common signs
Tenderness and pain localized to the inner bump of the elbow (medial epicondyle), which can shoot down the inner forearm toward the wrist. Stiffness in the joint is also common.
When to Worry
The pain spreads into your ring and little fingers, or is accompanied by numbness and tingling (suggesting involvement of the nearby ulnar nerve)
The joint feels hot to the touch or appears inflamed
You are unable to fully bend or straighten your arm due to intense pain
When to See a Doctor
Soon. Routine evaluation by a GP or physiotherapist is helpful to initiate structured rehabilitation and prevent long-term tendon degeneration.
What it is
Inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sac (bursa) that cushions the bony tip at the back of the elbow (olecranon). It can be caused by prolonged pressure (resting elbows on hard desks), a sudden blow, or an underlying infection.
Common signs
A distinct, visible swelling over the tip of the elbow that often resembles a soft golf ball or fluid-filled pouch. It may be painless initially but can become tender with pressure or movement.
When to Worry
The skin over the swollen bursa becomes intensely red, hot, exquisitely tender, or begins to ooze pus (indicating septic bursitis, a bacterial infection)
You develop a fever, chills, or generally feel unwell alongside the swelling
The swelling develops rapidly after a penetrating wound or scratch to the skin
When to See a Doctor
Promptly if you suspect an infection, as you will require antibiotics or fluid aspiration. Otherwise, see a doctor routinely for large, persistent swellings.
What it is
Compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes through a narrow space (the cubital tunnel) on the inside of the elbow—commonly known as the “funny bone” nerve.
Common signs
A persistent numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensation in the ring finger and little finger. Pain can radiate from the inner elbow down the forearm, often worsening when the elbow is bent for long periods.
When to Worry
You experience structural weakness in your hand, such as difficulty clumsily fumbling with buttons, opening jars, or typing
You notice visible wasting or thinning of the small muscles between your thumb and fingers (muscle atrophy)
The numbness becomes constant and no longer fades when straightening the arm
When to See a Doctor
Soon. Early nerve evaluation via a GP or neurologist avoids permanent nerve damage and muscle loss. Splinting or surgical decompression may be required.
What it is
The progressive wear and tear of the smooth articular cartilage that caps the elbow bones. It is less common than hip or knee arthritis and usually develops following a past joint injury, fracture, or years of heavy manual labor.
Common signs
A deep, dull ache within the joint that worsens with activity and eases with rest. It is characterized by progressive stiffness, a reduced range of motion, and a grating sensation (crepitus) during movement.
When to Worry
The joint suddenly “locks” or catches in one position, preventing you from moving it at all (often caused by loose fragments of cartilage or bone)
Pain persists throughout the night and fails to respond to standard over-the-counter painkillers
Joint swelling becomes constant and significantly restricts your daily independence
When to See a Doctor
Routinely. Long-term management by a GP or orthopedic specialist can help preserve joint function through medication, physical therapy, or joint debridement.
What it is
A complete or partial tear of the biceps tendon where it attaches to the forearm bone (radius). This typically happens during a sudden, forceful lifting exertion against heavy resistance, such as moving furniture or lifting weights.
Common signs
A sudden, sharp “pop” or tearing sensation at the front of the elbow during exertion, followed by immediate pain, swelling, and deep bruising across the front of the joint.
When to Worry
This is always a scenario that requires prompt attention. If left unaddressed, the biceps muscle can permanently retract up the arm, causing a permanent loss of forearm twisting power (supination).
You notice a visible bulge in the upper arm where the muscle has bunched up (a “Popeye” deformity).
When to See a Doctor
Urgently. Go to an Urgent Treatment Centre or A&E. Surgical repair to reattach the tendon provides the best functional outcomes, and it must ideally be performed within a few weeks of the injury.
What it is
Compression of the radial nerve where it travels through a narrow pathway on the outer side of the forearm, just below the elbow joint. It is frequently misdiagnosed as persistent tennis elbow.
Common signs
A deep, aching pain in the upper forearm muscles, rather than directly on the bone. The pain typically worsens when extending the wrist, straightening the fingers, or rotating the forearm.
When to Worry
The pain is accompanied by a noticeable weakness in your wrist or fingers, making it difficult to lift the hand up (wrist drop)
The ache becomes a constant, burning pain that radiates down into the back of the hand and thumb
Conservative treatments for tennis elbow provide absolutely no relief after several months
When to See a Doctor
Promptly. An accurate neurological and clinical assessment is required to distinguish this from tendonitis and guide appropriate nerve-directed therapies.
What it is
A break or fracture of the bony tip of the elbow (olecranon), which forms part of the ulna. This injury typically occurs from a direct fall onto the back of the elbow or a high-impact blow.
Common signs
Sudden, agonising pain at the back of the elbow, accompanied by rapid swelling, severe bruising, and an inability to straighten the elbow against gravity.
When to Worry
This is always a critical situation. A fracture can easily displace or pierce the skin, leading to long-term joint instability or infection.
There is an open wound over the fracture site, or bone is visible
Your hand or fingers feel cold, numb, or look pale, indicating a compromise to local blood vessels or nerves
When to See a Doctor
Urgently. Go to the nearest A&E department immediately. Most displaced olecranon fractures require surgical stabilization with wires, pins, or plates to restore function.
What it is
A severe injury where the joint surfaces of the upper arm and forearm are forcefully separated from each other. It is usually caused by a high-energy fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH).
Common signs
Extreme, immediate pain accompanied by an obvious, severe deformity of the elbow joint. The arm will appear shortened, crooked, or locked in a bent position with rapid, severe swelling.
When to Worry
This is always a major surgical emergency. A dislocated elbow can easily stretch or compress the major nerves and blood vessels supplying the forearm and hand.
You lose the pulse at your wrist, or your fingers become completely numb, blue, or immobile
When to See a Doctor
Urgently. Call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not attempt to pop the joint back into place yourself. A clinician must reduce the dislocation under sedation and check for associated fractures.
What it is
Inflammation or irritation of the triceps tendon, which anchors the large muscle at the back of your upper arm to the tip of your elbow. It is commonly seen in athletes who perform repetitive straightening movements, like weightlifting, throwing, or gymnastics.
Common signs
A dull, aching pain localised directly above the tip of the elbow at the back of the arm. The pain is typically provoked by straightening the arm against resistance or pushing off from a chair.
When to Worry
You experience a sudden, sharp snap at the back of the arm followed by an immediate inability to straighten your elbow (indicating a triceps tendon rupture)
A firm, painful lump develops in the triceps muscle belly
Localised swelling at the back of the arm increases rapidly and resists rest and ice
When to See a Doctor
Routinely for persistent aching to prevent chronic degeneration. Urgently if you suspect the tendon has completely torn.
Numbness or tingling always requires evaluation. Sensation changes in the hand or fingers usually mean a nerve is trapped or compressed at the elbow. Leaving this untreated can result in permanent muscle weakness or loss of hand dexterity.
Repetitive strain needs early modification. Pushing through tendon pain like tennis or golfer’s elbow often leads to chronic tissue changes that take months to heal. Early activity modification, ergonomics, and rest are key.
Acute joint deformities are emergencies. A sudden change in the shape of the elbow after a fall, or an inability to move the joint, demands immediate medical assessment to rule out dislocations or fractures.
Elbow presentations are standard routine care. Physiotherapists, GPs, and orthopedic specialists handle these joint issues every day—never delay seeking advice for a joint that restricts your basic daily functions.
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