Medial Epicondylitis or Golfer's Elbow:
You may know medial epicondylitis as "golfer's elbow." This disorder occurs when the muscles that bend the wrist down are overused, such as when swinging a golf club. The discomfort experienced by people with medial epicondylitis is located at the inner aspect of the elbow joint.
Lateral Epicondylitis or Tennis Elbow:
Lateral epicondylitis is more common than the above mentioned medial epicondylitis and also is known as tennis elbow. Lateral epicondylitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the muscles that bend the wrist backward are stressed. This motion is used during the backhand swing of a tennis player, thus the name. With this condition however, elbow discomfort is located at the outer aspect of the elbow joint.
Olecranon Bursitis
The olecranon bursa is a slippery sac between the skin and the bone at the tip of the elbow. The bursa allows the skin to move freely over the underlying bone. If this sac becomes irritated due to repetitive movement, it becomes swollen and painful. This condition is called olecranon bursitis. The discomfort experienced with this disorder is directly over the elbow joint.
Biceps Tendonitis
The biceps are the large group of muscles in the front of the upper arm that help bend the elbow. If these muscles are used too frequently, the tendon that it is associated with becomes irritated and painful. This disorder is known as biceps tendonitis. The pain experienced with biceps tendonitis is located in the front of the elbow joint.
Dislocation
One of the most serious injuries involving the elbow is an elbow dislocation. This disorder occurs when an outside force acts on the joint displacing the bones from their proper alignment. It is easily diagnosed with an xray. With a dislocated elbow, the pain experienced with be around the entire joint.
After determining the cause of elbow pain, physical therapy can begin. Elbow rehabilitation requires a combination of stretching and strengthening associated muscle groups to achieve a beneficial outcome.
