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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Could Be the Causes of Pain in the Right Elbow?

Tomas Diaz

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

Right elbow pain is commonly related to overuse injuries and musculoskeletal problems. However, there are other causes to consider.

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Explanation

Common causes of pain in either elbow include tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), bursitis (inflammation of a bursa - a small fluid-filled sac that cushions joints, bones, and muscles), arthritis, sprains, and joint inflammation. Some people might also experience pain from nerve compression or injuries from repetitive motions. Inflammation within the joint can be due to various causes such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infections. These conditions can cause swelling, warmth, and restricted movement of the joint. In some cases, trauma or overuse injuries may also lead to joint inflammation. If you experience persistent or severe elbow pain—or signs of infection such as fever and redness around the elbow—seek prompt medical attention.

(References)

  • Cohen M, da Rocha Motta Filho G. LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS OF THE ELBOW. Rev Bras Ortop. 2015 Dec 8;47(4):414-20. doi: 10.1016/S2255-4971(15)30121-X. PMID: 27047843; PMCID: PMC4799438.

  • Jung SS, Lee MK, Lim SH, Kwon YM, Choi SS. Elbow pain proven to be tuberculous arthritis -A case report-. Korean J Anesthesiol. 2010 Feb;58(2):211-4. doi: 10.4097/kjae.2010.58.2.211. Epub 2010 Feb 28. PMID: 20498803; PMCID: PMC2872853.

  • Stasinopoulos D, Papadopoulou M. Is Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy an Appropriate Clinical Diagnostic Term When the Condition Is Persistent? J Clin Med. 2022 Apr 20;11(9):2290. doi: 10.3390/jcm11092290. PMID: 35566416; PMCID: PMC9103793.

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