What Could Cause My Elbow to Hurt Constantly?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

Chronic elbow pain can stem from several conditions, including overused tendons, joint impingement, or complications from previous injuries. A medical evaluation is recommended.

Explanation

Constant elbow pain can stem from several causes. The most common is an overuse injury—such as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow—where repeated motions inflame the tendons on either side of the elbow. Persistent elbow pain may also result from nerve impingement, which occurs when surrounding tissues like tendons, muscles, or bones compress nerve pathways. Elbow pain from trauma may continue even after an initial injury heals. This can happen when the underlying condition remains unresolved or when scar tissue develops. Arthritis and nerve disorders can also cause ongoing pain. Left untreated, these conditions often limit movement and progressively worsen. A doctor can evaluate your symptoms through physical examination and imaging tests, then recommend appropriate treatments like rest, physical therapy, or other options to promote healing and relieve pain.

(References)

David MA, Chamberlain AM, Lake SP. Preclinical Models of Elbow Injury and Pathology. Ann Jt. 2021 Jan;6:12. doi: 10.21037/aoj.2020.02.09. Epub 2021 Jan 15. PMID: 35990575; PMCID: PMC9390859.
Sidhu GS, Amanullah N, Kaur H, Pattnaik S, Ashwood N, Peter Dekker A, Selhi HS. Persistent lateral elbow pain from overlooked posterolateral impingement of the elbow: a literature review and guidance for treatment. Clin Shoulder Elb. 2024 Dec;27(4):487-495. doi: 10.5397/cise.2023.01081. Epub 2024 Aug 7. PMID: 39138941; PMCID: PMC11615467.
Hanson ZC, Stults WP, Lourie GM. Failed surgical treatment for lateral epicondylitis: literature review and treatment considerations for successful outcomes. JSES Rev Rep Tech. 2023 Aug 26;4(1):33-40. doi: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2023.07.006. PMID: 38323205; PMCID: PMC10840577.

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