Elbow pain
Lateral & medial epicondylitis (tennis & golfers elbow)
More commonly known as tennis elbow, and golfers elbow, these conditions are characterised by pain and inflammation on the outside (tennis) or inside (golfers) part of the elbow. Despite their names, these conditions are not limited to tennis and golf players — it can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions involving the forearm muscles.
Common symptoms:
Pain on the outer side of the elbow (tennis elbow)
Pain on the inside of the elbow (golfers elbow)
Both conditions:
Pain with gripping, like holding a mug, shaking hands, or gripping a screwdriver.
Weakness in the forearm when trying to grip or lift objects
The elbow might feel stiff or tight, especially after rest or in the morning.
Tenderness pressing on the elbow will likely be painful
Valgus extension overload (VEO)
Valgus extension overload (VEO) is a condition that affects the elbow, particularly in athletes who perform overhead motions, tennis players, swimmers, or boxers. When the elbow is forced into an extended position with an excessive valgus stress (the inward angling of the elbow joint) this can lead to damage to the structures around the elbow, including the ulnohumeral joint, ligaments, and bone.
Typical symptoms:
Pain on the inside (medial) side of the elbow.
Pain during overhead activity, throwing, or punching.
Reduced range of motion.
Swelling.
Instability.
Osteoarthritis of the elbow
Osteoarthritis (OA) in the elbow is a joint condition where the cartilage that lines the elbow joint gradually breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. The most common cause of OA is simply the natural process of ageing, where the cartilage gradually deteriorates over time. It’s more common in people over 50 years old, and with repetitive use.
Common symptoms:
Pain typically around the elbow joint
Stiffness
Swelling
Grinding or Crepitus
Reduced Range of Motion
Bone Spurs (Osteophytes)