Dr. Carlos Rebollón
Swollen elbow
in Panama
Schedule an Appointment
Swollen elbow
Swollen elbow
Inflammation of the elbow can be caused by a variety of reasons and is a condition characterized by pain and dysfunction of the arm. Here are some key details to help you recognize the causes of a swollen and red elbow.
What is elbow inflammation?
Elbow inflammation is the body’s response to injury, disease, or irritation. The purpose of inflammation is to combat the underlying cause of the problem and facilitate healing. Elbow inflammation is characterized by signs such as swelling, redness, heat, and pain in the affected area.
Most common types of elbow inflammation
The types of inflammation vary depending on the cause. In this regard, we can identify the following:
Acute inflammation
Acute inflammation of the elbow refers to sudden and short-lived inflammation in the elbow. It is usually caused by injuries, blows, or direct trauma to the elbow. Acute elbow inflammation can also arise from an infection or as part of an inflammatory disease.
Chronic inflammation
Chronic inflammation of the elbow tends to develop gradually and can last for several weeks or months. This inflammation can be caused by a variety of conditions, including tendinitis, bursitis, arthritis, autoimmune diseases like lupus, as well as strain or repetitive injury to the joint.
Causes of elbow inflammation
The causes of elbow inflammation are diverse and may include:
Sports or work-related injuries.
Repetitive movements (such as throwing a baseball or jobs involving repetitive arm movements).
Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Common joint infections.
Infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
Elbow tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow).
Elbow bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions for the bones, tendons, and muscles).
Elbow arthritis (inflammation of the elbow joints resulting from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis).
Symptoms accompanying elbow swelling
Among the signs that frequently accompany elbow inflammation are:
Pain in the elbow and arm.
Swelling and redness around the elbow.
Feeling of warmth in the joint.
Difficulty moving the arm and elbow.
Numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR ELBOW INFLAMMATION?
It is important to seek medical attention for elbow inflammation when:
Pain and swelling do not improve after a few days of rest and home care.
The inflammation persists for several weeks.
There is fever or signs of infection.
There is intense pain following an injury or trauma to the elbow.
DIAGNOSIS OF ELBOW INFLAMMATION
The diagnosis of elbow inflammation is usually based on physical examination and the patient’s symptoms. However, in more complex cases, the doctor may request additional tests to help determine the underlying cause of the inflammation. These tests may include:
X-rays
X-rays can be helpful in determining if there is any damage to the bones of the elbow causing the inflammation.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound can show if there is swelling or fluid in the elbow, which is common in cases of elbow tendinitis or bursitis.
MRI (MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING) MRI
Provides detailed images of the tissues of the elbow and is often used to diagnose elbow arthritis or other soft tissue injuries.
Blood tests
Blood tests help rule out autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), which tend to cause inflammation in the joints.
Treatment for elbow inflammation
Treatment for elbow inflammation can range from conservative options to surgical techniques (depending on the cause of the swollen and red elbow). Some of the most commonly used treatments include:
Rest, compression and elevation
Resting the affected arm and elbow is essential to allow the inflammation to decrease. Applying compression and elevating the elbow above the level of the heart reduces swelling by reducing blood flow to the affected area.
ICE
Applying ice to the elbow is an effective method to reduce inflammation and joint pain.
Medications
Pain-relieving and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are part of the initial treatment for swollen and red elbow.
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Physical therapy can help increase the strength, flexibility, and function of the elbow through special exercises.
STEROID INJECTIONS
In some cases, doctors may recommend steroid injections to quickly control inflammation and pain.
Surgery
In severe or persistent cases of elbow inflammation, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the internal tissues.
