What might cause pain that extends from the elbow down into the hand?

Pain can travel from the elbow down into the hand due to several conditions. One common cause is lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), where irritated tendons attached to the outer elbow can cause pain radiating down the arm. The median nerve can also cause this type of pain. Running from the forearm to the hand, this nerve can create radiating pain when compressed or stretched. Radial tunnel syndrome is another potential cause. When the radial nerve becomes compressed near the elbow, it can create discomfort that extends down the arm into the hand. Both nerve compression and tendon irritation—often caused by repetitive movements or injury—are the underlying mechanisms for these conditions. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms to identify the specific cause and create an appropriate treatment plan.