Elbow Pain Treatment in Bristol | Osteopath for Elbow Pain

Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

The most common cause of elbow pain we see. Despite the name, tennis elbow affects far more people who have never played tennis than those who have. It causes pain on the outer side of the elbow, typically worsening with gripping, lifting, and repetitive wrist and forearm movements. It is an overuse condition involving degeneration of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, and responds well to osteopathic treatment and a structured loading programme. Rest alone is rarely the answer.

Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)

Pain on the inner side of the elbow, caused by overuse and degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle. Common in golfers, climbers, and anyone who performs repetitive gripping or wrist flexion activities. Often accompanied by tingling in the ring and little fingers due to involvement of the ulnar nerve.

Olecranon bursitis

Swelling and pain at the bony point of the elbow, caused by inflammation of the bursa that sits over the olecranon. Often develops after a direct blow or prolonged pressure on the elbow. In most cases it responds well to conservative treatment, though severe or infected cases require medical management.

Cubital tunnel syndrome

Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow causes pain, tingling, and numbness in the ring and little fingers, and sometimes weakness in the hand. Symptoms are often worse with prolonged elbow bending, such as when sleeping or talking on the phone. Osteopathic treatment to the elbow, neck, and thoracic spine can reduce nerve compression and improve symptoms significantly.

Elbow osteoarthritis

Degenerative changes in the elbow joint cause pain, stiffness, and a gradual reduction in movement. More common in patients with a history of elbow injury or heavy manual work. Osteopathic treatment can reduce pain and maintain movement even where degenerative changes are established.

Referred pain from the neck and upper back

A significant proportion of elbow pain originates not in the elbow itself but in the cervical spine and thoracic spine, which supply the nerves of the arm. Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow that do not respond to local treatment often have a cervical component that has been missed. We always assess the neck and upper back as part of every elbow assessment.

Elbow ligament sprains

The ligaments of the elbow can be sprained in falls, contact sport, and throwing activities. We assess ligament integrity and manage sprains conservatively where appropriate, referring for imaging or surgical opinion where needed.

Bicep and Tricep Tendinitis

The two largest muscle groups of the upper arm, the biceps and triceps, attach to the elbow. Their tendons can become inflamed, irritated and painful. The answer is personalised to you.