The elbow is an important joint that allows for range of motion and mobility in the arm. There are various types of elbow injury, but the most common ones include dislocation, fracture, and a condition known as bicep tendon rupture. Tennis elbow, golfers elbow, and elbow hypertension injury are other common types of elbow problems. A dislocation usually results from falling on the arm while the elbow is fully extended or outstretched. Participation in full-contact sports, such as wrestling and soccer, or falling from heights can easily lead to such injuries of the elbow.
Dislocation tends to cause acute pain in the area of the elbow joint. The pain can be severe enough to require sedation of the patient or require a patient to follow a pain-management program. It may also lead to loss in range of motion and mobility. An elbow fracture is another common, but serious, injury that may necessitate surgery to reduce the risk of long-term problems such as a loss of motion. Fractures, caused by falling on an extended or outstretched arm, may also involve severely damaged nerves and blood vessels that mandate surgical repair.
Bicep tendon ruptures are on the list of common elbow injuries that can cause acute pain in the joint area. Repetitive lifting is one activity that may lead to this problem, which is primarily seen in mature athletes. Due to the fact that surgery tends to be the only remedy for re-attaching the tendons, many older athletes elect to not have their elbow repaired. Elbow hypertension injury is an elbow sprain caused by bending the joint back the wrong way. Pain, stiffness, and swelling may develop shortly after the occurrence.
Depending on the severity of the elbow injury, some home remedies may prove effective. Many patients have experienced relief by applying ice packs over the affected joint for approximately 15 minutes every two hours. This is an all-natural treatment that has been suggested for tennis elbow. Alternatively, the application of heat may alleviate the discomfort. Some sufferers find that alternating between heat and ice brings the greatest relief.
Fortunately, the most common types of injury to the elbow may be prevented by following simple advice. Regular exercise and avoiding repetitive movements, whenever possible, help to guard against developing problems of the joints. There are even some foods that may be of benefit, such as those rich in omega-3 fatty acids that discourage inflammation.