ELBOW
PAIN
Pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow makes gripping, lifting and computer work difficult. With Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor, we look for the cause in overloaded tendons, forearm muscles and neighbouring joints.
The elbow connects the upper arm and the forearm and is loaded by the pulling forces of the forearm muscles with every grip. The most common problem is overload of the tendons where they attach, known as tennis elbow (outer side) or golfer's elbow (inner side). You do not have to play tennis or golf to develop it - repetitive work with the hands is enough.
Why elbow pain occurs
Most often it is overload of the tendons and forearm muscles:
- 🔹 Repetitive gripping, lifting or work with tools
- 🔹 Prolonged work with a mouse and keyboard without proper forearm support
- 🔹 Tension in the forearm and wrist muscles
- 🔹 Tension transferred from the cervical spine or shoulder
- 🔹 Sudden overload, for example when lifting a heavy load
- 🔹 Previous elbow injuries or insufficient recovery from them
How elbow pain presents
Typical signs are:
- 🔹 Pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow
- 🔹 Pain when gripping, squeezing the hand or opening a jar
- 🔹 Pain when lifting objects with the arm outstretched
- 🔹 A feeling of weakness or an unreliable grip
- 🔹 Tenderness when pressing on the bony part of the elbow
- 🔹 Morning stiffness or pain after prolonged strain
How we treat elbow pain
The aim is to offload the tendons, release tight forearm muscles and remove the strains that keep the problem going.
1. Assessment of condition
Examination of the elbow, wrist, shoulder and cervical spine and identifying loading patterns.
2. Manual therapy
Release of the forearm muscles and improved mobility of the joints of the arm.
3. Adjusting the load
Guidance for work, forearm exercises and a gradual return to activities.
Elbow pain we help with
People most often come to us with these problems:
- 🔹 Tennis elbow: pain on the outer side of the elbow
- 🔹 Golfer's elbow: pain on the inner side
- 🔹 Pain when gripping, lifting or opening doors
- 🔹 Pain after repetitive movements at work or in sport
- 🔹 Tension in the forearm muscles
- 🔹 Pain radiating from the neck or shoulder into the elbow
Signs that require immediate attention
In case of sudden severe pain after a fall or a blow, visible deformity, marked swelling, redness with a raised body temperature, or tingling and weakness of the fingers, first consult a doctor, as this may be a fracture, joint inflammation or pressure on a nerve.
Tennis elbow can last a long time if the loading stays the same. Early treatment and adjustment of movement patterns often shorten recovery time.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about elbow pain
Do I have to play tennis to get tennis elbow?
No. Most patients do not play tennis; the problem is caused by repetitive wrist movements and gripping, for example during computer or tool work.
Does a brace or elbow strap help?
In some patients it temporarily offloads the tendons during activity, but it does not remove the cause. Discuss its use after an examination.
Can I continue working?
Often yes, but in an adapted way. It makes sense to reduce strains that strongly worsen the pain for the duration of treatment.
How long does recovery take?
From a few weeks to several months, depending on how long the problem has lasted and whether the load can be reduced.
Is an injection the only solution?
No. Most cases are treated conservatively with offloading, manual therapy and exercises. A doctor decides about injections.
Do I need imaging?
Often not; the diagnosis is usually made by clinical examination. Ultrasound or MRI is used when an additional assessment is needed.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.