Elbow Pain

Based upon your answers, tendonitis, elbow sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the elbow is also a possibility.

To decrease pain, rest the elbow and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a brace, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.

While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time. Continue below to learn more about these and other causes of elbow pain.

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Online Medical Reviewer: LeWine, Howard MD Date Last Reviewed: 5/8/2006 Date Last Modified: 4/3/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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