Pain in the elbow and hand
Causes, diagnosis & treatment
Pain in the elbow and hand area often occurs after overuse due to sporting or professional activities. Sometimes it is also difficult to identify the cause of the pain.
Common causes include:
Bursitis olecrani (inflammation of the bursa)
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is the counterpart to tennis elbow, but the inner tendon insertion on the elbow is affected. Here too, microtraumas lead to degeneration of the tendon origin. The symptoms can include load-dependent pain when moving the hand inwards (pronation movement), as well as radiation to the inside of the forearm.
Tennis elbow (tennis elbow)
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a painful irritation of the tendon insertions on the outer elbow caused by overloading, e.g. through repeated strain such as when playing tennis. Repeated microtraumas lead to degeneration of the tendon insertions. Conservative treatment is usually possible. This includes identifying the incorrect strain, physiotherapy, manual therapy, eccentric muscle training, shock wave therapy and autologous blood therapies.
Golfer's arm
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is the counterpart to tennis elbow, but the inner tendon insertion on the elbow is affected. Here too, microtraumas lead to degeneration of the tendon origin. The symptoms can include load-dependent pain when moving the hand inwards (pronation movement), as well as radiation to the inside of the forearm.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a constriction of the median nerve in the tissue of the wrist, which leads to numbness, tingling and pain in the fingers. Therapeutic relief measures, special wrist splints or an operation to relieve pressure on the nerve can help. We also offer such an operation in our practice.
Tendovaginitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath)
Tenosynovitis can occur in people who spend a lot of time working at a computer as well as in athletes, especially strength athletes. Those affected complain of pulling pain in the area of the fingers and wrist. In advanced stages, nodular thickening of the tendon can occur, resulting in the phenomenon of the rapid finger.
Finger joint arthrosis
Wear and tear of the joint cartilage leads to painful restriction of movement in the finger and thumb joints (rhizarthrosis). Women are affected more frequently than men, and most sufferers are over 50 years old.
Diagnosis of pain in the elbow and hand
The diagnostics in our practice are carried out in several stages, tailored to your symptoms. A physical examination can often provide information about your symptoms. Depending on the initial findings, we can use imaging techniques such as digital X-rays and ultrasound to obtain more information about the condition of bones, muscles and tendons. In certain cases, we also use an MRI to gain detailed insights into soft tissues and joints. In our private practice, we can also organize MRI appointments at short notice.
Treatment of pain in the elbow and hand
Dr. Baron & Colleagues focus on gentle and effective treatments. After the examination, our doctors will draw up a treatment plan together with you.
Our treatment methods for pain in the elbow and hand area include
Shock wave therapy
Shockwave therapy is a gentle treatment method that is used for elbow and hand complaints, such as tennis elbow and tendonitis. High-energy sound waves are targeted at the affected area to promote healing. The sound waves stimulate blood circulation and cell regeneration, which can lead to pain relief and faster recovery.
Chirotherapy
Chirotherapy is a method for treating functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Chirotherapy can be used specifically for complaints of the elbow and hand, such as overloading and restricted movement after injuries such as bone fractures. Gentle hand movements and mobilization techniques are used to treat joints, muscles and nerves in order to release movement restrictions and relieve pain. Gentle techniques are used to promote blood circulation and the body’s self-healing powers.
Infiltration therapy
Infiltrations in the area of the elbow or hand can contribute to minimally invasive pain relief and inflammation inhibition in cases of acute pain. A local anesthetic or a corticosteroid is often injected into the affected area. However, corticosteroids are only suitable for occasional use due to the side effects on the surrounding tissue. We use other active ingredients for elbow complaints. Infiltrations can be a valuable addition to other conservative measures.
Medical strengthening therapy
Medical training therapy (MTT) is targeted training designed to restore and strengthen the muscles and improve the function of the elbow and hand. Good results can be achieved, particularly with chronic complaints and after injuries.
Under expert guidance, special exercises are performed that are tailored to the patient’s individual needs. The focus is on building muscle strength and stability in order to increase the load-bearing capacity of the joints and reduce pain. The therapy promotes regeneration, prevents relapses and helps to improve the mobility and performance of your elbow and hand in the long term.
Orthotics
Orthoses are orthopaedic aids that are used to support muscular and ligament deficits. Orthoses can help to improve mobility, particularly after accidents and in the case of age-related signs of wear and tear.
Infusions with vitamins
Vitamin infusions can have a supportive effect if tendon pain is caused by nutrient deficiencies or insufficient regeneration. Some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, B vitamins and magnesium, are important for collagen formation and metabolism in the tissue. An adequate supply can promote the healing process and reduce inflammation.
Treatments for sports injuries
Our doctors have an additional qualification in trauma surgery and have many years of experience in treating injuries to the elbow and hand. This includes the treatment of bone fractures, dislocations and muscle injuries. If an operation has been recommended for you, we will be happy to give you a second opinion. Please bring all previous findings with you.
Carpal tunnel splitting
Carpal tunnel splitting is a surgical procedure to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, a constriction of the median nerve in the wrist. The carpal ligament is cut to reduce the pressure on the nerve and relieve symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling. The procedure can be performed openly and is offered by our practice as an outpatient procedure.
If you need orthopaedic help quickly, our doctors at the private practice for orthopaedics Dr. Baron & Kollegen are at your disposal. Make an appointment today so that you can soon enjoy your everyday life again without pain.