If you’re experiencing elbow pain and have been asking around for potential diagnoses, you might have heard various terms. With so many names and descriptions, it can be confusing to pinpoint exactly what’s causing your discomfort.
Elbow pain, particularly on the outer part of the elbow, can be triggered by various conditions. If you’re feeling tenderness or pain when gripping, extending your arm, or moving your wrist, it’s crucial to identify the condition correctly for effective treatment.
Here’s a rundown of the common names and terms used for elbow pain:
Tennis Elbow: This is the most widely known term, referring to pain on the outer elbow, often due to overuse of the forearm muscles. Historically, it’s also been called “writer’s cramp” or “washerwoman’s elbow” due to its association with repetitive arm movements.
Lateral Epicondylitis: This medical term is used when the pain is acute or sudden. It describes inflammation of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony prominence on the outer elbow.
Lateral Epicondylosis: When the condition is chronic and long-term, it is referred to as lateral epicondylosis. It involves degeneration of the tendons rather than inflammation.
Elbow Tendinitis/Tendonitis: This term is used for acute cases of inflammation in the elbow tendons.
Elbow Tendinosis/Tendonosis: This term applies to chronic cases where the tendons have undergone degenerative changes without significant inflammation.
Elbow Tendinopathy/Tendonopathy: This term covers both acute and chronic conditions of the elbow tendons, describing any tendon-related pathology.
Elbow Overuse Injury: Sometimes, doctors might use this broad term to describe pain from repetitive strain or overuse of the elbow.
Regardless of the name, it’s important to recognize that elbow pain typically won’t resolve on its own without intervention. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, seeking professional treatment is essential. Physical therapy can be highly effective in addressing the underlying issues, whether it’s inflammation, degeneration, or another cause.
