Common Elbow Pain Conditions and Clinical Insights for Diagnosis
Dirsek ağrısı sporcularda ve tekrarlayan kol kullanımı olan kişilerde yaygındır. Tenisçi dirseği, golfçü dirseği ve ulnar sinir sıkışması gibi rahatsızlıkları klinik ipuçları ve fizyoterapi yaklaşımlarıyla nasıl tanıyacağınızı ve yöneteceğinizi öğrenin.
Fizyoterapist Nesibe Avşar 
Elbow Pain and Disorders
The elbow is a crucial joint prone to pain and disorders due to sports activities and repetitive daily movements. Below are examples of clinical evaluations and diagnostic tips based on patient-reported symptoms. This information serves to raise awareness among the public and offers guidance to fellow professionals and healthcare students.
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Patient says: “I feel a sharp pain on the outside of my elbow when I grip something.”
Clinical Insight: Repetitive strain causes microtraumas on the outer elbow. Ice application, rest, and rehabilitation programs are used to relieve symptoms.
2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Patient says: “I feel noticeable pain on the inner side of my elbow when I grip or lift something.”
Clinical Insight: Repetitive stress on the inner tendons leads to inflammation. Anti-inflammatory treatments and physiotherapy are effective in symptom control.
3. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Patient says: “When I bend my elbow, I feel numbness and tingling in my ring and little fingers.”
Clinical Insight: Compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through a narrow area causes neurological symptoms and elbow pain. Nerve mobilization exercises and lifestyle changes play key roles in management.
4. Olecranon Bursitis
Patient says: “There’s a swelling on the back of my elbow, like a small ball.”
Clinical Insight: Inflammation of the bursa at the back of the elbow presents with swelling and pain. Cold compresses and anti-inflammatory medications are first-line treatments.
5. Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury
Patient says: “I feel a looseness in my elbow, like it might pop out when I throw or catch something.”
Clinical Insight: Ligament damage from sudden, forceful movements leads to joint instability and elbow pain. Functional rehab and supportive interventions are essential for recovery.
6. Distal Biceps Tendinitis
Patient says: “I feel a concentrated pain in the front part of my elbow.”
Clinical Insight: Inflammation due to repetitive overuse of the tendon causes elbow pain. Early intervention, anti-inflammatory treatment, and targeted exercise programs help reduce symptoms.
7. Elbow Osteoarthritis
Patient says: “I feel stiffness and pain in my elbow, especially in the mornings or after being still for a while.”
Clinical Insight: Degenerative joint changes lead to osteoarthritis, commonly seen in older adults. Individualized rehab plans, medication, and lifestyle modifications form the basis of treatment.
