Hand and Elbow Pain

Pain occurring in the hand and elbow can often be improved by gentle manual treatment, depending on the cause. Osteoarthritis or wear and tear in the joints of the hand and elbow may benefit from advice from an osteopath.

Elbow pain is often due to two main conditions commonly known as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. Tennis elbow causes pain and tenderness around the outside of the elbow joint, whereas golfer’s elbow causes pain around the inner side of the joint.

Tennis elbow is more common than golfer’s elbow. Although both are injuries from repetitive overuse or wear and tear from any hobby, sport or activity, not just tennis or golf as the name implies.

Sometimes a single injury such as a sudden unexpected tug on the forearm can trigger the pain. Once the pain starts, normal activities and habits can maintain the problem. Pre-existing problems with the neck, wrist or shoulder, that might not be painful in themselves, can increase your risk.

How can an osteopath help?

• A variety of different massage and mobilisation techniques may be used to try and ease symptoms, get to the cause of the problem and back to normal lifestyle, using gentle mobilisation of the elbow, wrist, neck and upper back joints.
• Advice may be offered on activities and movements to avoid, specific exercise and an appropriate elbow brace support or sports strapping.
• You may be referred to a GP for advice about pain medication or anti-inflammatories or referred to a specialist for any additional investigations or treatment.