Elbow Pain
Relief from elbow pain in Papworth Everard, Cambridgeshire:
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​Did you know that golfers are actually more likely to develop tennis elbow than golfer’s elbow?
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Elbow pain is a common and often frustrating issue that can affect people of all ages. It is typically caused by overuse, injury, or repetitive strain, leading to symptoms such as discomfort, stiffness, or swelling that can interfere with everyday activities. Whether you’re an athlete or regularly perform repetitive tasks at work, understanding the cause of your pain is key to effective recovery.
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Early intervention is essential, addressing symptoms promptly can prevent long-term issues and help you return to full function with confidence.
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Below are just some of the elbow conditions our expert team treats. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you move confidently from pain to peak performance.
Tennis Elbow / Lateral Epicondylitis
Are you experiencing elbow pain on the outside of your elbow? Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a common condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow, often due to overuse or repetitive strain of the forearm tendons. While commonly associated with tennis, it actually affects a wide range of people, and is particularly common amongst trades people and office workers whose activities involve frequent gripping, lifting and typing. Typical symptoms include discomfort or sharp pain during everyday tasks that require gripping, lifting, or twisting. Early attention can help you return to pain-free movement and avoid long-term limitations.
Golfer's Elbow / Medial Epicondylitis
Are you experiencing pain on the inside of your elbow? Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is a common condition caused by overuse or repetitive strain, leading to irritation of the tendons on the inner elbow. Despite the name, it affects a wide range of people, not just golfers, especially those who perform frequent gripping or repetitive arm movements. Symptoms often include tenderness, stiffness, and pain that may radiate down the forearm, particularly during gripping or lifting tasks. With the right care and targeted exercises, most people can relieve symptoms and return to comfortable, pain-free movement.
Elbow Ligament Sprain
An elbow ligament sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the joint become stretched or torn, often due to sudden force or excessive strain. This can lead to pain, swelling, and restricted movement, making everyday tasks and physical activity difficult. Prompt assessment and targeted treatment can reduce discomfort, restore mobility, and help you return to full function more quickly and safely.
Nerve Compression / Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Are you experiencing tingling, numbness or weakness in your hand and fingers? Elbow nerve compression, commonly known as cubital tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve along the inner elbow becomes irritated or compressed. This can cause tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers, often worsening with prolonged bending or repetitive movements. Early assessment and targeted treatment are key to relieving symptoms, protecting nerve health, and restoring strength and function before the condition progresses.
Arthritis
Elbow arthritis is a condition involving inflammation and degeneration of the elbow joint, often developing over time due to wear and tear or previous injury. It can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion, making everyday tasks more challenging. Early assessment and appropriate management can help control symptoms, maintain joint mobility, and support long-term function, so you can continue your daily activities with confidence.
Bursitis / Olecranon Bursitis
Elbow bursitis, also known as olecranon bursitis, occurs when the bursa (the small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint) at the tip of the elbow becomes inflamed. This is often caused by repetitive movements, prolonged pressure (such as leaning on your elbow for long periods of time on a table), or direct injury, leading to noticeable swelling, pain, and tenderness. You may experience discomfort when bending or straightening the elbow, and in some cases, a visible lump can develop. With prompt and appropriate care, including targeted treatment and activity modification, symptoms can be effectively managed, helping you return to comfortable, pain-free movement.
Fractures and Dislocations
Elbow fractures and dislocations occur when one or more of the bones in the elbow joint are broken or forced out of position, typically due to a fall, accident, or direct impact. These injuries often cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and a reduced or complete inability to move the arm, sometimes with a visible deformity. Prompt medical care is essential. Treatment may include immobilisation, realignment, or in some cases surgery, followed by physiotherapy to restore strength, mobility, and full function, helping you recover safely and return to your normal activities.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy for elbow conditions focuses on relieving pain and restoring function through a combination of hands-on treatment and targeted rehabilitation. This may include joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, taping, acupuncture, and tailored exercise programmes.
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Our physiotherapists will also empower you with practical strategies to support your recovery, such as specific stretches and strengthening exercises to prevent recurrence. We provide expert guidance on managing workload, incorporating effective breaks, and reducing strain during daily activities. Where appropriate, we can also advise on posture correction and recommend ergonomic solutions, such as specialist keyboards or mice, to support long-term elbow health.