What are the potential causes of elbow pain?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Elbow pain has many possible causes, ranging from tendon inflammation (such as tennis elbow or golfer's elbow) and muscle strain to nerve compression, joint injuries, and arthritis. Because the elbow is a complex joint involving bones, tendons, muscles, and nerves, identifying the exact source of pain is essential for effective treatment. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, tingling, weakness, or difficulty gripping objects.

Since elbow pain can stem from so many different conditions, self-diagnosing can be difficult and delay proper care. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your discomfort and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Elbow pain can arise from various parts of the elbow. Common causes typically result from repetitive motions and include tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), which affects the outer part of the elbow, and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), which affects the inner part. Other potential causes include arthritis, bursitis, and trapped nerves like ulnar nerve entrapment. Persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider who can assess your specific situation. You can start by taking a free symptom checker test to better understand your symptoms.

(References)

Gangatharam S. Anconeus syndrome: A potential cause for lateral elbow pain and its therapeutic management-A case report. J Hand Ther. 2021 Jan-Mar;34(1):131-134. doi: 10.1016/j.jht.2019.04.002. Epub 2019 Sep 3. PMID: 31492479.
Rineer CA, Ruch DS. Elbow tendinopathy and tendon ruptures: epicondylitis, biceps and triceps ruptures. J Hand Surg Am. 2009 Mar;34(3):566-76. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.01.022. PMID: 19258160.
Johns N, Shridhar V. Lateral epicondylitis: Current concepts. Aust J Gen Pract. 2020 Nov;49(11):707-709. doi: 10.31128/AJGP-07-20-5519. PMID: 33123709.

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