The bones in the human body are made flexible by joints like the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, pelvis, knee, ankle, fingers, and toes. Regular wear and tear can result in joint pains. Early detection and diagnosis can ensure effective treatment and recovery.
The elbow is the joint between the upper and lower arm that helps the arm to bend. It is a hinged joint made up of three bones, covered with cartilage that helps absorb shock and are held together by ligaments.
While working in tandem with the shoulder and wrist joints, the elbow enables free movement of arms and helps to flex, extend, and grasp objects. Thank your elbow if you can reach out and pick up a book from the shelf.
Elbow helps you in performing repetitive movements involved in your work, sports, and household chores. Over-usage of the elbow results in inflammation of the tendons, thus causing tendonitis. It is the most common cause of elbow pain.
Elbow pain occurs in jobs requiring repetitive arm and wrist movements. People who work on computers, tailors, carpenters, artists/painters, assembly-line workers in factories, etc., experience tendonitis. Sports like golf, table tennis, cricket, and lawn tennis involve repetitive movement of the elbow. Tendonitis could occur due to a sudden injury. However, it is majorly the result of stress caused to the tendons due to the repetition of a particular movement over time.
Symptoms:
- Dull pain while moving the hand
- Tenderness
- Swelling/redness
Risk factors: Activities involving over-exertion, reaching overhead too often, repetitive movements, and awkward positions are risk factors for elbow pain.
Mostly, elbow pain is treatable with self-care. However, you should see a doctor if the pain persists. If you ignore and continue with your activities, there is a risk of tendon rupture, which may need surgery.
Doctors first recommend non-intrusive treatments to manage pain using joint support/compression products, supplements, and assistive tools, manufactured by healthcare companies like Dr. Arthritis.
Look for the best elbow sleeve available in the market that effectively supports the elbow while providing gentle pressure and increasing blood flow. The essential role of elbow sleeves and braces is to reduce harsh movement and prevent further damage/swelling.
Here are some helpful ideas to prevent elbow pain:
- Rest: If you notice pain after performing an activity for a prolonged time, take a break and rest the joint. Stretch your arms to minimize the trauma
- Cross-train: If you notice that one particular movement is causing pain, then intersperse it with another activity. It helps in easing up the momentum and prevents stress on the tendons.
- Technique: Your technique may be flawed and causing pain. Learn the proper technique from experts.
- Workplace ergonomics: Ensure proper adjustment of chair, keyboard, and desktop to suit your height.
- Build muscles: Work on those muscles that are required regularly in your work or sport.
