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Published on: 5/26/2025

What are common causes of pain on the inside of the elbow?

Pain on the inside of the elbow is often caused by tendon overuse (medial epicondylitis) or irritation of nerves.

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Explanation

When you feel pain on the inside of your elbow, it can be from a few common problems. One common cause is a tendon issue called medial epicondylitis, or “golfer’s elbow.” This happens when the tendons that help your forearm muscles work are overused. It can make your elbow hurt when you grip or twist your hand. Another cause is irritation of the nerves, like the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve or ulnar nerve, from compression. In both cases, repetitive movements or overuse from sports or work activities can lead to discomfort. Other factors that might add to the problem include minor injuries or even nerve troubles affecting the ulnar nerve. These issues are often managed with rest, gentle exercises, or physical therapy to help heal the tendon or ease the nerve irritation. Always talk with a healthcare professional to get the right guidance if the pain continues.

(References)

  • Cesmebasi A, O'driscoll SW, Smith J, Skinner JA, Spinner RJ. The snapping medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. Clin Anat. 2015 Oct;28(7):872-7. doi: 10.1002/ca.22601. Epub 2015 Aug 9. PMID: 26212210.

  • Donaldson O, Vannet N, Gosens T, Kulkarni R. Tendinopathies Around the Elbow Part 2: Medial Elbow, Distal Biceps and Triceps Tendinopathies. Shoulder Elbow. 2014 Jan;6(1):47-56. doi: 10.1111/sae.12022. Epub 2013 Jun 10. PMID: 27582910; PMCID: PMC4986646

  • Pitzer ME, Seidenberg PH, Bader DA. Elbow tendinopathy. Med Clin North Am. 2014 Jul;98(4):833-49, xiii. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2014.04.002. Erratum in: Med Clin North Am. 2015 Jan;99(1):xix. PMID: 24994055.

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