[44M] Experiencing elbow pain with specific movements

Patient Description

A 44-year-old male has been experiencing pain in the elbow for the past three weeks. The pain is localized to the outside of the elbow where a hard knot is present. The pain intensifies when attempting to straighten the arm or grip objects. Additionally, the patient experiences numbness in the hands, particularly after sleeping, and severe pain when performing specific movements like lifting the middle finger while it is held down. There are no signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever, and no recent injuries have been reported. The patient is otherwise healthy, active, and is not on any medications. There is no known family history of arthritis or joint-related conditions.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it seems like you might be experiencing one of the following conditions:

  • Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): This condition occurs when the tendons in your elbow are overloaded, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. The pain of tennis elbow occurs primarily where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to the bony prominence on the outside of your elbow (lateral epicondyle). Pain can also spread into your forearm and wrist. The fact that your pain is exacerbated by lifting your middle finger while it's held down is consistent with this condition.

    • Treatment typically starts with conservative therapies such as rest, physical therapy and over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, surgery might be needed.

  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve, which passes close to the skin's surface in the area of the elbow commonly known as the "funny bone." You're more likely to develop cubital tunnel syndrome if you frequently lean on your elbow or bend your elbow for sustained periods. Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include pain and numbness in the elbow and tingling, especially in the ring and little fingers.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding activities that cause symptoms, wearing a splint or supportive brace, and physical therapy.

What you can do

You should seek medical attention to get a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Rest your elbow as much as possible and avoid activities that cause pain.
  2. Apply ice to your elbow for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  4. Wearing a brace or splint can help support your elbow and prevent further injury.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your elbow pain is severe or sudden
  • You can't use your elbow or arm
  • You have noticeable swelling or redness around your elbow
  • You have a fever along with elbow pain

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

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6 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is lateral epicondylitis and what are its common symptoms?

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is a condition caused by overuse of the elbow, leading to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Common symptoms include pain that worsens with arm and wrist activity, especially when lifting or gripping objects.

How is cubital tunnel syndrome different from carpal tunnel syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, involves compression of the median nerve at the wrist, leading to symptoms in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

What are some effective home remedies for managing elbow pain?

Effective home remedies for managing elbow pain include resting the elbow, applying ice packs to reduce swelling, using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, and wearing a brace or splint to support the elbow.

When should I see a doctor for elbow pain?

You should see a doctor for elbow pain if the pain is severe or sudden, if you are unable to use your elbow or arm, if there is noticeable swelling or redness, or if you have a fever along with the pain.

1 Comments

Anonymous#19741

6 mo ago

Cubical tunnel typically comes from contact stress. Leaning your elbows or forearms on the edge of the desk is a common source of problems. When working, there should be nothing touching your elbows or forearms. Keep your arms off the desk and off the arm rests when working. Tennis elbow typically comes from forearm rotation with force.

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