Elbow Pain Disorders
Medial epicondylitis also known as Golfer's elbow characterized by medial elbow pain that is elicited by resisted wrist flexion and forearm pronation.
Lateral epicondylitis also known as Tennis elbow characterized by lateral elbow pain that is elicited by resisted wrist extension and forearm supination.
Olecranon Bursitis can be due inflammatory (RA, gout, pseudogout...) or infectious etiology (most commonly Staph aureus in 85% of cases). Characterized by pain at the olecranon that is worsened by flexion. Range of motion is typically intact. Aspirate only if septic bursitis is suspected, otherwise treat with NSAIDs and elbow protection.
Ulnar neuropathy characterized by decreased sensation on the 4th and 5th digits as well as the posteromedial aspect of the forearm. You can elicit pain by tapping on the cubital tunnel.
Radial neuropathy characterized by decreased sensation on the posterolateral aspect of the hand and forearm and pain in the proximal forearm that is elicited by resisted supination and elbow flexion while hand in supination position.
Treatment will involve one or more of these depending on the site and situation: rest, NSAIDs, physiotherapy, splinting, specific disease treatment and steroid injections. Start with aspiration when there is suspicious for infection and antibiotics.
You can read more about the elbow disorders using this book Practical office orthopedics.
This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your doctor or local emergency services.