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Elbow MRI – Accurate Imaging for Joint Pain & Injuries

Elbow MRI – Accurate Imaging for Joint Pain & Injuries
Dr. Sachin Shah
written by
Dr. Sachin Shah
Clinical Lead
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Understanding Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterised by pain on the outer part of the elbow. This pain results from overuse and repetitive motions that strain the tendons of the forearm, particularly the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow).

Symptoms include

Pain and Tenderness

  • Pain is typically located on the outside of the elbow and may extend into the forearm and wrist.
  • Tenderness is often felt when pressing on the lateral epicondyle.

Weakness in the Forearm

  • Difficulty in performing tasks that require gripping or holding objects.
  • Decreased strength in the hand and wrist.

Pain with Specific Activities

  • Pain that worsens with activities such as lifting, gripping, or extending the wrist.
  • Aggravation of pain during activities like shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or holding a coffee cup.

Understanding Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) and its Treatments

1.Rest and Activity Modification

Avoid Painful Activities: Steer clear of activities that cause or worsen the pain, allowing the tendons time to heal.

2.Physical Therapy

Exercises: Engage in strengthening and stretching exercises to improve the condition of the forearm muscles and tendons.

3.Medications

NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen) help reduce pain and inflammation.

4.Bracing

Support Straps or Braces: Use forearm straps or braces to minimise strain on the affected tendons, providing relief and support during activities.

5.Advanced Treatments

Corticosteroid Injections: Injections that reduce severe pain and inflammation directly in the affected area.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A treatment using a concentration of the patient's own platelets to promote tendon healing.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive procedure using sound waves to stimulate the healing process in the tendons.

6.Surgery

Surgical Intervention: Rarely needed, but in severe cases, surgery may be performed to remove damaged tissue and promote healing.

Understanding and Managing Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition characterised by pain on the inner part of the elbow. This pain results from overuse and repetitive motions that strain the tendons of the forearm, particularly the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle (the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow).

Symptoms include

Pain and Tenderness

  • Pain is typically located on the inside of the elbow and may extend into the forearm and wrist.
  • Tenderness is often felt when pressing on the medial epicondyle.

Weakness in the Forearm

  • Difficulty in performing tasks that require gripping or holding objects.
  • Decreased strength in the hand and wrist.

Pain with Specific Activities

  • Pain that worsens with activities such as lifting, gripping, or flexing the wrist.
  • Aggravation of pain during activities like swinging a golf club, shaking hands, or lifting weights.

Treatment is similar to tennis elbow.

Differences Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow

While both conditions involve inflammation of the tendons due to overuse, they affect different parts of the elbow. Tennis elbow impacts the outer elbow, while golfer's elbow affects the inner elbow. Recognising these differences is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Recognising and Treating Elbow Strains

Elbow strains occur when muscles or tendons around the elbow are overstretched or torn, causing pain, swelling, and limited movement.

Symptoms

  • Pain: Discomfort or sharp pain in the elbow.
  • Swelling: Puffiness around the elbow.
  • Limited Movement: Difficulty moving the elbow normally.

Treatment

  1. Rest and Immobilisation
    • Rest the elbow and use a sling or brace to keep it still.
  2. Ice Application
    • Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
  3. Compression and Elevation
    • Wrap the elbow with an elastic bandage and keep it raised to reduce swelling.
  4. Rehabilitation Exercises
    • Gradually perform exercises to restore strength and flexibility once pain subsides.

Prevention

  • Proper Techniques: Use correct techniques in activities.
  • Regular Exercise: Strengthen forearm muscles.
  • Ergonomic Tools: Use tools that reduce strain on the elbow.

Common Causes of Elbow Pain in Athletes

Elbow pain in athletes often stems from repetitive motions and overuse, leading to several common conditions:

  • Tendonitis: Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Inflammation of tendons on the elbow due to repetitive wrist and arm motions.
  • Ligament Injuries: Stretching or tearing of elbow ligaments, crucial for stabilising the joint.
  • Stress Fractures: Microscopic cracks in elbow bones from repetitive stress, causing significant pain and requiring rest and rehabilitation.
  • Nerve Entrapment Syndromes:
    Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers.
    Radial Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the radial nerve, leading to pain in the outer elbow and forearm.

Understanding these common causes helps athletes identify and manage elbow pain effectively, seeking timely treatment to prevent further injury and maintain performance.

Understanding the Anatomy of the Elbow Joint

The elbow joint is composed of three main bones: the humerus, which is the upper arm bone; the radius, which runs along the thumb side of the forearm; and the ulna, which runs along the pinky side of the forearm. These bones come together to form a hinge joint that allows for bending and straightening of the arm, as well as rotational movements of the forearm.

Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect bone to bone and help stabilise the elbow joint. They prevent excessive movement and provide support during activities.

Tendons are fibrous cords that connect muscle to bone. In the elbow, tendons attach muscles from the forearm to the bones of the elbow joint. They transmit the force generated by the muscles to move the joint.

Muscles surrounding the elbow joint provide the power to bend (flex) and straighten (extend) the arm, as well as rotate the forearm.

This complex structure enables the elbow to perform a wide range of movements necessary for daily activities and sports.

What to Expect from an Elbow MRI

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that provides detailed images of the elbow's internal structures. During the procedure, you will lie still while the MRI machine uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images. The scan typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

How to Interpret Your Elbow MRI Results

Interpreting MRI results involves understanding the radiologist's report, which will detail any abnormalities such as:

  • Tendon tears or inflammation of tendons
  • Ligament injuries
  • Bone fractures
  • Nerve compression
  • Degenerative changes like osteoarthritis

Discussing these results with your doctor will help you understand the diagnosis and decide on the best treatment plan.

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Signs You Need to See a Doctor for Elbow Pain

You should see a doctor if you experience

  • Elbow pain, especially if persistent or severe
  • Swelling or redness around the elbow
  • Inability to move the elbow
  • Visible deformities
  • Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and promote faster recovery

Effective Home Treatments for Tennis Elbow

Home treatments for tennis elbow include:

  • Resting the affected arm: Refrain from activities that exacerbate pain, such as gripping, lifting heavy objects, or repetitive arm movements. Giving the affected arm adequate rest allows the inflamed tendons to heal.
  • Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day. This practice helps reduce inflammation, numb pain, and can be especially beneficial after activities that strain the elbow.
  • Using over-the-counter pain relievers (if this is safe to do so for you).
  • Performing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises: Incorporate gentle stretching exercises to maintain or improve flexibility in the forearm muscles and tendons. Hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat several times daily.

Consistency and patience are key when practising these home treatments. If symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

When to Consider Surgery for Tennis Elbow

Surgery is considered for tennis elbow when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Surgical options include removing damaged tissue and reattaching a healthy tendon to the bone. Post-surgery rehabilitation is crucial for full recovery.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Elbow Pain Management

Physical therapy is crucial for managing elbow pain by focusing on key areas:

  • Improving Strength and Flexibility: Exercises are tailored to strengthen elbow muscles and improve joint stability, enhancing overall function.
  • Reducing Pain with Manual Therapy: Techniques like massage and joint mobilisation help relieve tension and improve circulation, reducing pain.
  • Using Modalities for Treatment: Modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation aid in healing and pain management during therapy sessions.
  • Personalised Exercise Programs: Therapists design tailored routines to restore range of motion, build strength, and improve flexibility around the elbow.
  • Education and Prevention: Patients learn proper techniques to prevent future injuries and manage daily activities without strain.
  • Monitoring Progress: Therapists track progress closely, adjusting treatments as needed to optimise recovery.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in rehabilitating elbow injuries, offering targeted treatments to alleviate pain and improve overall joint function effectively.

Exercises to Relieve Tennis Elbow Pain

Eccentric exercises are effective for relieving tennis elbow pain. Here are some examples

1. Eccentric Wrist Extension

  • Support your forearm on a table with your palm down.
  • Use your unaffected hand to assist in bending your wrist upward.
  • Slowly lower your wrist back to the starting position using the affected arm muscles only.
  • Do 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

2. Eccentric Wrist Flexion:

  • Support your forearm on a table with your palm up.
  • Use your unaffected hand to help bend your wrist downward.
  • Slowly lower your wrist back to the starting position using the affected arm muscles.
  • Aim for 3 sets of 15 repetitions.

3. Eccentric Forearm Pronation and Supination:

  • Hold a light weight in your hand with your palm facing down.
  • Use your unaffected hand to assist in rotating your wrist towards the ceiling (supination).
  • Slowly lower the weight back to the starting position using the affected arm muscles.
  • Perform 3 sets of 15 repetitions for each direction.

Perform these exercises with controlled movements and without causing pain. Start with light resistance and increase gradually as you build strength. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting new exercises, especially if you have existing elbow issues.

Best Stretches for Forearm Pain Relief

For relieving forearm pain, effective stretches target both the wrist flexors and extensors. Start with a wrist extensor stretch by extending your arm forward with the palm facing up, gently pulling the fingers back with the other hand until a mild stretch is felt in the forearm. Hold this position for 15-30 seconds and switch to the wrist flexor stretch, where the palm faces down and the fingers are gently pulled towards the body for the same duration.

Choosing the Right Brace for Tennis Elbow

Choosing the right brace for tennis elbow involves considering several factors to ensure it helps effectively.

There are two main types: counterforce braces, which apply pressure on the forearm muscles to ease strain on the tendon, and elbow straps that focus pressure on the tendon insertion point for relief during activities.

How to Choose the Best Elbow Support for Tendonitis

It's crucial that the brace fits comfortably, providing support without being too tight, and is made of breathable materials like neoprene to prevent discomfort from sweating. Look for adjustable options for a personalised fit and ease of use throughout the day.

Consider your daily activities and consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to find the best brace that supports your needs and promotes healing.

Lifestyle Changes to Improve Elbow Health

Improving elbow health through lifestyle changes involves two key strategies: stretching and ergonomics. Regular stretching of the forearm muscles with exercises like wrist flexor and extensor stretches helps maintain flexibility and reduce strain.

Ergonomics plays a vital role in prevention by ensuring proper positioning and support during activities. Adjusting workstations to maintain neutral wrist positions, using supportive tools, and taking breaks to rest and stretch can prevent overuse injuries. These simple adjustments and practices can significantly enhance elbow health and reduce the risk of conditions like tennis elbow.

Impact of Poor Posture on Elbow Pain

Poor posture can contribute significantly to elbow pain by placing undue stress on the muscles and tendons around the elbow joint. When posture is slouched or hunched forward, it can lead to misalignment of the shoulders, elbows, and wrists. This misalignment increases the workload on the forearm muscles and tendons, particularly during activities that involve repetitive motions or prolonged gripping. Over time, this excessive strain can result in conditions like tennis elbow or exacerbate existing elbow pain.

Maintaining good posture, with shoulders back and relaxed, can help distribute the load evenly across the upper body and reduce unnecessary strain on the elbows, thereby supporting overall elbow health and minimising discomfort.

Tips for Reducing Elbow Pain at Work:

  • Ergonomic Setup: Ensure your workstation promotes neutral wrist positions and proper posture.
  • Regular Breaks: Take frequent breaks to stretch and relax your arms and wrists.
  • Use of Ergonomic Tools: Employ ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain during tasks like typing or lifting.
  • Stretching Exercises: Incorporate gentle stretches for the forearm muscles throughout the workday to maintain flexibility.
  • Task Variation: Vary your tasks to avoid prolonged periods of repetitive movements that can worsen elbow pain.

Conclusion

Elbow pain can stem from a variety of causes—from sports injuries like tennis or golfer’s elbow to nerve compression, ligament damage, and overuse strains. An Elbow MRI is one of the most accurate, non-invasive ways to identify the exact cause of your discomfort, enabling faster, more effective treatment.

If you’ve been experiencing persistent pain, weakness, or reduced range of motion in your elbow, getting a detailed scan can provide the answers you need and help prevent further damage.

Don’t wait for the pain to worsen — Book your Elbow MRI today and get clear, precise results fast.

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FAQs

1. What is tennis elbow treatment?

Tennis elbow treatment involves rest, physical therapy with exercises to stretch and strengthen forearm muscles, and possibly corticosteroid injections for inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.

2. Why is a wrist brace effective for tennis elbow?

A wrist brace effectively supports and stabilises the tendons affected by tennis elbow, reducing strain during gripping and lifting activities. This support helps alleviate pain, promotes healing, and prevents further aggravation of the condition.

3. What does an Elbow MRI show?

An elbow MRI provides detailed images of bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and nerves, helping detect tears, inflammation, fractures, and other abnormalities.

4. Will I need contrast dye for my MRI?

Contrast dye may be recommended if your doctor needs more detailed images of certain tissues or blood vessels. This will be discussed before your scan.

5. How soon will I get my Elbow MRI results?

Reports are usually available within 24–48 hours, depending on the clinic or hospital policy.