Elbow pain can develop after sports, repetitive gripping, lifting, computer work, or a sudden increase in activity. Two common overuse conditions are lateral epicondylitis, often called tennis elbow, and medial epicondylitis, often called golfer’s elbow. Similar symptoms can also come from the neck, shoulder, nerves, joints, or other tissues, so an appropriate evaluation matters.
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
Tennis elbow usually causes tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow usually affects the inside. Symptoms may be aggravated by gripping, lifting, wrist movement, or repetitive activity. These labels describe common patterns, but they do not identify every possible cause of elbow pain.
When to seek medical care
Prompt medical evaluation is appropriate after significant trauma or when elbow pain is accompanied by marked swelling, deformity, fever, spreading redness, progressive weakness, persistent numbness, or an inability to use the arm. New or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
How chiropractic care may fit into a treatment plan
At Rincon Chiropractic, an appointment begins with a history and physical examination. The clinician may assess the elbow, wrist, shoulder, neck, movement patterns, work setup, and activities that reproduce symptoms. Imaging or referral may be recommended when the examination suggests it is appropriate.
Depending on the findings, conservative care may include activity guidance, mobility work, exercise recommendations, ergonomic changes, manual therapy, or other services offered by the practice. The specific approach and expected course vary by diagnosis, symptom severity, health history, and individual response. No treatment can guarantee a particular outcome.
Supporting recovery
- Temporarily reduce or modify activities that clearly aggravate symptoms.
- Review sport, lifting, or workstation technique.
- Follow exercises recommended for your specific examination findings.
- Increase activity gradually as symptoms and function allow.
General information online cannot replace an examination. If elbow pain is persistent, recurrent, or interfering with daily activity, a healthcare professional can help determine the likely cause and discuss appropriate options.
Schedule an evaluation in San Francisco
Learn more about chiropractic care in San Francisco, or view current chiropractic appointments in Jane. Rincon Chiropractic is located at 180 Howard Street, Suite G4, San Francisco.