Elbow pain can make simple daily movements—lifting a bag, typing, cooking, or reaching overhead—unexpectedly difficult. Whether you’re feeling inner elbow pain, pain in the upper left arm between the elbow and shoulder, or elbow pain when bending and straightening, discomfort in this joint often signals irritation, overuse, or nerve involvement. Understanding the root of your elbow pain is the first step toward long-term relief. Below, we break down common elbow pain causes, symptoms, and effective elbow pain treatment options, including the benefits of mobile physical therapy for those on the Westside of Los Angeles.
Common Elbow Pain Causes
Elbow pain can stem from repetitive strain, sports mechanics, posture issues, or even nerve irritation. The most common causes include:
1. Elbow Tendonitis
Also known as overuse tendon irritation, elbow tendonitis frequently develops from repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting motions.
-
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Pain on the outer side of the elbow, often triggered by typing, lifting, or racquet sports.
-
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain on the inside of the elbow, especially when gripping or bending the wrist.
These conditions often worsen with elbow pain when lifting, gripping objects, or twisting motions.
2. Elbow Nerve Pain
Nerve compression—most commonly of the ulnar nerve—can cause tingling, numbness, or sharp pain radiating down the arm. This may feel like pain in the elbow joint or even discomfort spreading between the elbow and shoulder.
3. Joint Irritation or Arthritis
While less common than in other joints, inflammation in the elbow can create stiffness and pain in the elbow when straightening the arm.
4. Muscle Strain or Upper Arm Overuse
Pain located between the elbow and shoulder often relates to the biceps or brachialis muscle. This can make bending or lifting the arm difficult.
Why Does My Elbow Hurt When Bending or Straightening?
Many people notice discomfort only during certain motions—especially elbow pain when bending and straightening. Here’s why:
Pain When Bending the Elbow
This can indicate:
-
Biceps tendon irritation
-
Ulnar nerve compression
-
Inner elbow tendonitis (golfer’s elbow)
Pain When Straightening the Elbow
Often linked to:
-
Triceps tendon irritation
-
Joint inflammation
-
Tennis elbow (outer side strain)
If pain increases during workouts or daily tasks such as reaching or pushing, underlying tendon or nerve issues are likely contributing factors.
Pain on the Inside vs. Outside of the Elbow
Understanding the location of discomfort helps narrow down the cause.
Pain on the Inside of the Elbow
Usually associated with:
-
Golfer’s elbow
-
Ulnar nerve compression
-
Wrist flexor overuse
This type of inner elbow pain often intensifies with gripping or bending the wrist.
Pain on the Outside of the Elbow
Most commonly:
-
Tennis elbow
-
Overuse of wrist extensors
-
Improper lifting mechanics
The pain typically worsens with lifting objects—especially with the palm facing down.
FAQs About Elbow Pain
Why do I feel pain between my shoulder and elbow?
This is often related to upper arm muscle strain, tendon irritation, or nerve compression. Poor posture and repetitive lifting also contribute.
How do I know if my elbow pain is serious?
Seek help if you notice:
-
Persistent pain lasting longer than 1–2 weeks
-
Swelling or visible deformity
-
Numbness or tingling
-
Increasing weakness
-
Difficulty fully bending or straightening the arm
Can elbow tendonitis heal on its own?
While mild tendonitis may improve with rest and activity modification, most cases require structured strengthening and mobility work—something physical therapy for elbow pain is specifically designed to address.
Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain: How It Helps
Targeted therapy is one of the most effective treatments for reducing pain and restoring full function in the elbow joint. A physical therapist evaluates movement patterns, strength imbalances, and daily habits that contribute to irritation.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain or Recovery From Elbow Surgery
-
Reduces inflammation and irritation
-
Restores full range of motion
-
Strengthens tendons and surrounding muscles
-
Improves posture to reduce nerve irritation
-
Customizes exercises based on your pain triggers
-
Prevents recurrence through ergonomic and activity training
These treatment strategies help address both the symptoms and root causes of elbow pain.
Why Choose Mobile and In-Home Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain?
For many people, traveling to a clinic while dealing with severe elbow pain is inconvenient. Mobile physical therapy brings expert Outpatient PT care directly to your home, allowing for more personalized and functional treatment.
Advantages of In-Home Outpatient Physical Therapy
-
Convenient for people with busy schedules
-
Eliminates driving, traffic, and wait times
-
Allows therapists to evaluate real-life movement patterns at home
-
Ideal for those with acute pain or limited mobility
-
Offers a more private, comfortable treatment environment
For individuals seeking physical therapy on the Westside of Los Angeles, mobile care is especially beneficial given the city’s heavy traffic and time demands.
At-Home Solutions for Elbow Pain Relief
Below are simple, research-supported strategies often recommended alongside professional treatment:
1. Activity Modification
Avoid repetitive gripping, heavy lifting, or twisting motions that aggravate symptoms.
2. Ice or Heat Therapy
-
Ice reduces inflammation during early flare-ups.
-
Heat improves mobility if stiffness is the main issue.
3. Gentle Mobility Exercises
Slow stretching of the wrist flexors and extensors can reduce tension placed on the elbow joint.
4. Strengthening Exercises
A physical therapist may prescribe:
-
Forearm strengthening for tendonitis
-
Upper arm strengthening for pain radiating between the elbow and shoulder
-
Postural exercises to reduce nerve stress
5. Ergonomic Adjustments
Correcting typing posture, adjusting desk height, or modifying sports technique can drastically reduce irritation.
How Mobile Physical Therapy and Wellness Can Help
Mobile Physical Therapy and Wellness and Dr. Elizabeth DPT specializes in Outpatient In-Home Physical Therapy designed to treat complex and persistent elbow conditions. Our therapists assess your elbow mechanics, movement patterns, and lifestyle factors to create a personalized plan for healing.
Our Elbow Pain Treatment Approach
-
Comprehensive mobility and strength assessment
-
Targeted soft tissue therapy
-
Progressive tendon strengthening
-
Posture and movement retraining
-
Sport- or work-specific modifications
-
At-home exercise plans that fit your schedule
We focus on long-term recovery—helping you not only eliminate elbow pain but also prevent it from returning.
Whether you’re struggling with elbow tendonitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, elbow nerve pain, or general pain in the elbow, understanding the underlying cause is essential for long-lasting relief. With targeted care and a tailored treatment plan, elbow pain can be successfully managed and resolved.
If you’re on the Westside of Los Angeles and prefer convenient, personalized care, mobile physical therapy offers a powerful, effective way to heal from the comfort of home. With the right guidance, you can restore full arm function, reduce pain, and return to the activities you love.
