By Dr. Vishal Sahni, Orthopaedic Surgeon | London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur
Specialist in Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Conditions
Elbow pain in children and adolescents is more common than many parents realise. Whether it’s due to a fall during play, overuse during sports, or underlying joint conditions, elbow discomfort in growing kids should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
This comprehensive guide will help parents understand the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of elbow pain in young individuals. Written by Dr. Vishal Sahni, one of the most experienced Orthopaedic Surgeons in Central India, specialising exclusively in shoulder, elbow, and wrist treatments, this blog aims to address the concerns of every parent in simple, relatable language.
Why Elbow Pain Should Not Be Ignored in Children
Children are active, energetic, and often adventurous. From playground tumbles to sports injuries, their elbows are constantly exposed to stress. While a little soreness may not always be serious, persistent or worsening elbow pain could indicate something more severe. Ignoring early signs can lead to joint damage, poor bone growth, or chronic pain that persists into adulthood.
In younger patients, bones are still developing. The growth plates (also called epiphyseal plates) near the elbow are vulnerable to injuries that may not be obvious at first. That’s why even minor symptoms should be properly evaluated by an Orthopaedic Doctor in Nagpur who specialises in paediatric and adolescent joint care.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain in Children and Adolescents
1. Overuse Injuries from Sports
Children who actively participate in sports like cricket, tennis, badminton, gymnastics, or swimming may experience overuse injuries. The repetitive motion of throwing or swinging places stress on the elbow joint and tendons.
Common overuse conditions include:
- Little Leaguer’s Elbow: Common in children who play baseball or cricket. It’s caused by repetitive throwing.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Inflammation on the outer side of the elbow due to repetitive movements.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain on the inner side of the elbow due to excessive wrist or forearm motion.
2. Trauma and Accidental Falls
Falling on an outstretched hand is one of the leading causes of elbow fractures and dislocations in children. Playground injuries, bicycle accidents, or rough sports can all lead to:
- Supracondylar fractures (above the elbow joint)
- Radial head fractures
- Elbow dislocations
These injuries require urgent care from a qualified elbow specialist in Nagpur to ensure proper alignment and recovery.
3. Growth Plate Injuries
Children’s bones grow from areas known as growth plates. The elbow has several of them. Injuries to these areas can affect arm length, movement, or function if not treated properly. Growth plate injuries may mimic simple sprains, which is why imaging and expert diagnosis are essential.
4. Osteochondritis Dissecans
This is a condition where a small segment of bone and cartilage separates from the rest of the joint due to lack of blood flow. It can lead to pain, stiffness, and even locking of the elbow. It commonly affects adolescent athletes.
5. Nursemaid’s Elbow (Pulled Elbow)
Seen in toddlers or young children under the age of 5, this condition occurs when the elbow slips out of its normal position. It often happens when a caregiver pulls a child’s arm too quickly. It causes sudden pain and the child may refuse to use the arm.
6. Arthritis or Infections
While rare, elbow pain in children can sometimes be caused by juvenile arthritis or septic arthritis (joint infection). If the child has swelling, fever, or warmth over the elbow, it requires urgent medical attention.
How to Recognise Elbow Pain in Children
Children may not always express their pain clearly. As a parent, look out for:
- Complaints of pain or discomfort when using the arm
- Swelling or redness around the elbow
- Reluctance to bend or straighten the arm
- Holding the arm stiffly at the side
- Clicking or popping sound while moving the elbow
- Weak grip or dropping objects
If the pain is persistent, affects daily activities, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or deformity, it’s time to visit an Orthopaedic Dr Near You.
When to See a Shoulder & Elbow Specialist
Seek expert care if your child:
- Complains of ongoing pain for more than 2-3 days
- Has visible swelling or bruising
- Experiences pain after sports or physical activity
- Shows signs of weakness or limited range of motion
- Is avoiding using the affected arm
Dr. Vishal Sahni, a renowned Shoulder and Elbow Specialist in Nagpur, has decades of experience in accurately diagnosing and treating paediatric and adolescent elbow injuries with a compassionate, child-friendly approach.
Diagnosis: How Experts Identify the Root Cause
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dhantoli, Nagpur, the diagnostic process for elbow pain typically includes:
- Clinical Examination: Checking movement, pain areas, tenderness, and swelling.
- X-rays: To detect fractures, growth plate injuries, or bone deformities.
- MRI or CT Scans: For soft tissue, ligament, or cartilage injuries.
- Ultrasound: Helpful in detecting fluid accumulation or inflammation.
A precise diagnosis helps in planning effective treatment and ensuring complete recovery.
Treatment Options for Elbow Pain in Children and Adolescents
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity, and age of the child. Options include:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Most overuse injuries can be managed by giving the elbow adequate rest. Temporary break from sports or physical activity allows the joint to heal.
2. Ice Packs and Pain Management
Applying ice packs for 10–15 minutes a few times a day can reduce swelling. Safe pain relievers may be recommended by your doctor, but self-medication should be avoided.
3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
A customised physiotherapy program helps restore range of motion, reduce stiffness, and strengthen the surrounding muscles. It also plays a key role in injury prevention.
4. Elbow Braces or Supports
In some cases, protective supports or braces may be advised to stabilise the elbow and reduce stress during healing.
5. Surgical Intervention (If Needed)
Surgery is rarely needed, but it may be required for:
- Severe fractures or dislocations
- Growth plate injuries not healing properly
- Loose bone fragments due to osteochondritis dissecans
As a highly skilled Elbow Surgeon in Nagpur, Dr. Vishal Sahni uses advanced techniques with minimal scarring and faster recovery for children.
Preventive Tips for Parents
You can protect your child from developing elbow problems by taking the following preventive steps:
- Encourage proper warm-up and stretching before sports activities.
- Limit repetitive motions, especially throwing or racket-based actions.
- Monitor sports training schedules to avoid overuse injuries.
- Teach proper sports techniques under certified coaches.
- Make use of appropriate safety gear, especially for contact sports or cycling.
- Educate children about pain – they should not ignore or hide discomfort.
Why Choose London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur?
Located in Dhantoli, London Orthopaedic Clinic is one of the leading centres in Central India for orthopaedic care in children, teens, and adults. Under the leadership of Dr. Vishal Sahni, the clinic offers personalised treatment plans for shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand conditions.
Why parents trust Dr. Vishal Sahni:
- 24+ years of experience in India and the UK
- Exclusive focus on shoulder and upper limb care
- Advanced imaging and surgical facilities under one roof
- Child-friendly diagnosis and treatment environment
- Patient-centric approach with clear communication
Final Thoughts
Elbow pain in children and adolescents should never be taken lightly. What may seem like a minor issue could lead to long-term complications if not treated properly. As a parent, your timely decision to seek help from an expert can make all the difference in your child’s recovery and future joint health.
If your child is experiencing elbow pain or discomfort, visit London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, and consult Dr. Vishal Sahni, one of the few specialists in Central India dedicated exclusively to treating shoulder, elbow, and wrist problems.
✅ FAQs: Elbow Pain in Children and Adolescents
1. What causes elbow pain in children?
Elbow pain in children can be caused by overuse injuries from sports, falls or trauma, growth plate injuries, joint dislocations, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis or infections. It’s important to get the correct diagnosis from a paediatric orthopaedic specialist.
2. When should I take my child to the doctor for elbow pain?
You should consult an orthopaedic doctor if your child has pain lasting more than a couple of days, visible swelling, trouble moving the elbow, weakness, or pain after a fall or sports activity.
3. Is elbow pain in children common?
Yes, elbow pain is relatively common among children, especially those involved in sports or physically active routines. It’s often due to repetitive strain or minor trauma.
4. Can sports cause elbow injuries in kids?
Yes, sports like cricket, tennis, badminton, gymnastics, and swimming often lead to overuse injuries like Little Leaguer’s Elbow, Tennis Elbow, or Golfer’s Elbow in growing children and teens.
5. What is Little Leaguer’s Elbow?
Little Leaguer’s Elbow is an overuse injury caused by repetitive throwing motions. It results in pain on the inner side of the elbow, commonly seen in children who play baseball or cricket.
6. What is Nursemaid’s Elbow in toddlers?
Nursemaid’s Elbow, or pulled elbow, is a condition in which a child’s elbow becomes partially dislocated. It usually occurs when a child is pulled or swung by the arms. It causes sudden pain and refusal to use the arm.
7. What are the signs of an elbow fracture in children?
Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, inability to move the elbow, visible deformity, and sometimes a popping sound at the time of injury. Fractures require immediate medical attention.
8. Can children develop Tennis Elbow?
Yes, although rare in younger kids, adolescents engaged in repetitive racket sports or lifting heavy objects improperly can develop Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis).
9. Is elbow pain in teenagers serious?
If untreated, elbow pain in teenagers due to overuse or injury can become chronic or lead to joint instability. Early intervention is the best way to prevent long-term damage.
10. How do doctors diagnose elbow injuries in children?
An orthopaedic doctor may use physical examination, X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasound to diagnose the exact cause of elbow pain or injury in children and adolescents.
11. Does elbow pain in children require surgery?
Not always. Most cases are treated with rest, physiotherapy, or braces. Surgery is recommended only in cases of severe fractures, dislocations, or conditions like osteochondritis dissecans with loose bone fragments.
12. How can I treat my child’s elbow pain at home?
You can apply ice packs, let the arm rest, and monitor the pain. Avoid giving any medication without consulting a doctor. If the pain persists or worsens, consult a shoulder and elbow specialist.
13. What is the role of physiotherapy in elbow pain recovery?
Physiotherapy helps improve joint movement, relieve pain, reduce stiffness, and strengthen muscles around the elbow. It’s a vital part of recovery for children with sports injuries or post-fracture stiffness.
14. Can a child return to sports after an elbow injury?
Yes, with proper rehabilitation, most children can return to sports. However, a gradual return under medical supervision is essential to prevent recurrence or long-term damage.
15. How can elbow injuries in children be prevented?
Encourage your child to warm up before activities, avoid repetitive stress, take regular breaks, and learn proper techniques from certified coaches. Use protective gear during sports and cycling.
16. What are growth plate injuries in the elbow?
Growth plate injuries occur when the soft cartilage near the bone ends is damaged. In children, these injuries can affect arm growth if not treated early by a paediatric orthopaedic specialist.
17. What is Osteochondritis Dissecans of the elbow?
It’s a condition where a piece of bone and cartilage in the elbow loses blood supply and may break off. It causes pain, swelling, and restricted movement. It is common in active teens.
18. Can infections cause elbow pain in children?
Yes, joint infections like septic arthritis can cause severe elbow pain, swelling, fever, and warmth around the joint. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention.
19. Who is the best elbow specialist for children in Nagpur?
Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dhantoli, Nagpur, is a highly experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand problems in children and adolescents.
20. How long does it take for a child’s elbow injury to heal?
Mild injuries can heal within a few weeks with rest and therapy, while fractures or surgical cases may take several months. Follow-up with your orthopaedic doctor is important for full recovery.
21. What makes London Orthopaedic Clinic the right choice for my child’s elbow pain?
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, Dr. Vishal Sahni offers child-friendly care, precise diagnosis, and advanced treatment for all elbow conditions in children. With years of experience in India and the UK, he ensures your child receives the best orthopaedic care available.