Condition
Elbow Pain
Elbow pain is a frequently overlooked complaint that can have a significant impact on daily life. The elbow is involved in almost every movement of the arm from lifting and carrying to typing and turning a door handle = and when it is not functioning well, even simple tasks can become uncomfortable.
Pain around the elbow can develop gradually through repetitive use, come on suddenly following an injury, or be referred from another region such as the neck or shoulder. Understanding which of these is at play is an important part of getting the right care.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) — pain on the outer side of the elbow, typically from overuse of the forearm extensors
- Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) — pain on the inner side, associated with the forearm flexors and gripping activities
- Olecranon bursitis — inflammation of the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow
- Ligament sprains following a fall or impact
- Nerve entrapment, including cubital tunnel syndrome affecting the ulnar nerve
- Referred pain from the cervical spine or shoulder
- Repetitive strain from occupational or sporting activity
It is worth noting that tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are not exclusive to those who play sport. They are commonly seen in people who perform repetitive tasks at work, including those using computers, tools, or carrying out manual labour.
Condition
How We Can Help
At Angel Spine Clinic, elbow pain is approached through both chiropractic and osteopathic principles, with assessment extending beyond the elbow itself. The wrist, shoulder, and cervical spine are all considered, as dysfunction in these areas can contribute to elbow symptoms or slow recovery.
Treatment may include:
- Mobilisation or manipulation of the elbow, wrist, and surrounding joints
- Soft tissue techniques including cross-friction massage to the affected tendons, trigger point therapy, and muscle stretching
- Assessment and treatment of the cervical and thoracic spine where nerve involvement or referred pain is suspected
- Muscle energy techniques to address tension and imbalance in the forearm and upper arm
- Guidance on load management and activity modification during recovery
- Targeted rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and reduce the likelihood of recurrence
Your Questions, Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does tennis elbow take to resolve?
Tennis elbow can be persistent, and without addressing the underlying load and movement patterns it often recurs. With appropriate care and rehabilitation, most people see meaningful improvement within several weeks to a few months. Chronic cases can take longer but generally still respond well to a structured approach.
Do I need to stop all activity while my elbow is being treated?
Not necessarily. Complete rest is rarely the best approach. Your practitioner will advise on which activities to modify or temporarily reduce and which are safe to continue. Keeping the surrounding tissues active and engaged generally supports recovery.
Can elbow pain come from my neck?
Yes. The nerves supplying the elbow and forearm originate in the cervical spine, and compression or irritation at that level can produce pain, tingling, or weakness that is felt in the elbow or forearm. This is assessed as part of a full examination at Angel Spine Clinic.
Is elbow pain something a chiropractor or osteopath can help with, or should I see a physiotherapist?
Chiropractors and osteopaths are well equipped to assess and treat elbow pain, including tendon-related complaints, joint dysfunction, and referred pain from the spine. If your presentation requires a different approach or onward referral, your practitioner will advise you accordingly.
Patient Stories
Trusted Across London
See why patients recommend our services through honest reviews and positive experiences.
What We Treat
Common Conditions
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions — from everyday discomfort to complex, long-standing pain.
