Elbow Swelling
Elbow swelling is the accumulation of fluid in or around the elbow joint, causing visible enlargement and often accompanied by pain, stiffness, and limited movement. It can result from injury, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions.
⚠️ Warning Signs - Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- Severe pain with inability to move the elbow
- Signs of infection (fever, red streaks, warmth, pus)
- Obvious deformity or bone protruding through skin
- Numbness or tingling in hand or fingers
- Cold, pale, or blue hand or forearm
- Rapid onset of massive swelling after injury
- Inability to feel pulse in wrist
- Severe bleeding from elbow area
- Signs of compartment syndrome (severe pain, tightness)
Common Causes of Elbow Swelling
Traumatic Causes
- Elbow fractures
- Elbow dislocation
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains
- Contusions (bruising)
- Falls on outstretched hand
- Direct blow to elbow
- Sports injuries
Inflammatory Conditions
- Olecranon bursitis (student's elbow)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Gout
- Pseudogout
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Reactive arthritis
- Lupus
Overuse Injuries
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Repetitive strain injury
- Tendinitis
- Chronic bursitis from leaning
- Occupational overuse
Other Causes
- Infection (septic arthritis, cellulitis)
- Blood disorders (hemophilia)
- Tumors (benign or malignant)
- Cysts
- Medication side effects
- Insect bites or stings
- Allergic reactions
Associated Symptoms
Common Symptoms
- Visible swelling or puffiness around elbow
- Pain ranging from mild to severe
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Warmth over the affected area
- Redness or discoloration
- Tenderness to touch
- Difficulty bending or straightening arm
- Feeling of tightness or pressure
- Weakness in arm or hand
- Bruising around elbow
- Fluid-filled sac at elbow tip
- Clicking or popping sounds with movement
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers diagnose elbow swelling causes through:
- Physical examination: Assessing swelling, range of motion, and tenderness
- Medical history: Recent injuries, activities, and symptoms
- X-rays: To check for fractures or arthritis
- MRI: Detailed images of soft tissues, ligaments, and tendons
- CT scan: For complex fractures or bone problems
- Ultrasound: To evaluate fluid collections and soft tissue
- Joint aspiration: Removing fluid for analysis
- Blood tests: Checking for infection, gout, or autoimmune conditions
- Arthroscopy: Direct visualization of joint interior
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment
- RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
- Ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times daily
- Compression bandage (not too tight)
- Elevation above heart level when possible
- Activity modification
- Protective padding
- Physical therapy exercises
- Gentle stretching when appropriate
Medical Treatments
- NSAIDs: Ibuprofen, naproxen for pain and inflammation
- Corticosteroid injections: For severe inflammation
- Antibiotics: If infection is present
- Disease-modifying drugs: For autoimmune conditions
- Fluid aspiration: Draining excess fluid
- Splinting or bracing: To limit movement and support
- Surgery: For fractures, severe injuries, or chronic conditions
Prevention
- Use proper technique in sports and activities
- Wear protective gear (elbow pads) when appropriate
- Take frequent breaks from repetitive activities
- Maintain good overall fitness and flexibility
- Strengthen arm and shoulder muscles
- Avoid leaning on elbows for extended periods
- Use ergonomic tools and workstations
- Warm up before physical activities
- Gradually increase activity intensity
- Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- Stay hydrated during physical activities
- Address minor injuries promptly