Are you experiencing a nagging pain in your elbow when you lift objects – whether it’s lifting groceries, a child, a water bottle, or gym weights? This type of discomfort is more common than you might think. But is it something minor, or a sign that you need to see an orthopedic doctor in Nagpur?
Let’s understand why your elbow hurts when you lift something, the possible causes, how to treat it, and when to seek medical attention from a shoulder and elbow specialist in Nagpur like Dr. Vishal Sahni.
Understanding the Elbow Joint: A Complex Mechanism
The elbow joint is where three bones meet: the humerus (upper arm), the radius, and the ulna (forearm bones). It’s a hinge joint supported by tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cartilage that allow you to bend, straighten, and rotate your arm.
When any of these components are injured or inflamed, lifting or gripping can become painful.
Common Reasons for Elbow Pain While Lifting
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- What is it? Inflammation of the tendons that attach to the lateral (outer) part of the elbow.
- Cause: Repetitive motion like typing, lifting weights, or playing racquet sports.
- Symptoms: Sharp pain on the outer part of the elbow, especially when lifting or gripping objects.
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- What is it? Similar to tennis elbow, but the pain occurs on the inside (medial side) of the elbow.
- Cause: Repeated bending, wrist flexion, or gripping tasks like gardening or weightlifting.
- Symptoms: Pain on the inside of the elbow, weakness in the hand or wrist.
3. Elbow Tendonitis
- What is it? General inflammation of elbow tendons due to overuse or strain.
- Common in: Labourers, athletes, and gym-goers.
- Pain Pattern: Throbbing or burning pain while lifting or moving the forearm.
4. Biceps Tendon Injury
- What is it? Inflammation or partial tear of the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the forearm.
- How it happens: Lifting heavy weights improperly or sudden jerks.
- Symptoms: Pain in front of the elbow, weakness in bending the elbow or twisting the forearm.
5. Ulnar Nerve Compression (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)
- What is it? Compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes behind the elbow.
- What it feels like: Numbness, tingling, or shooting pain in the ring and little finger, especially after lifting or elbow flexion.
6. Arthritis in the Elbow
- Types: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis.
- When does it occur? More common in older individuals or those with joint degeneration.
- Symptoms: Stiffness, reduced range of motion, pain while lifting or extending the arm.
7. Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)
- What is it? Inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) over the elbow.
- Symptoms: Swelling at the back of the elbow, pain when pressing or lifting.
8. Elbow Sprains or Ligament Injuries
- How it happens: Sudden twisting, falls, or overextension while lifting.
Symptoms: Swelling, pain during movement, and sometimes bruising.
Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored
If you notice any of the following along with elbow pain, it’s important to consult an orthopedic doctor in Nagpur:
- Persistent or worsening pain despite rest
- Numbness or tingling in fingers
- Visible swelling or deformity
- Weak grip strength
- Difficulty in straightening or bending the arm
Diagnostic Tests for Elbow Pain
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr. Vishal Sahni may recommend:
- Physical Examination: Range of motion, tenderness, strength check
- X-rays: To check for arthritis or fractures
- MRI or Ultrasound: For tendon tears or soft tissue injury
- Nerve Conduction Studies: If nerve compression is suspected
How Is Elbow Pain Treated?
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest & Ice: Avoid lifting or straining activities. Ice packs reduce inflammation.
- Bracing or Elbow Strap: To support tendons and reduce strain.
- Physiotherapy: Guided exercises to strengthen forearm muscles and restore mobility.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen for pain relief.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For persistent pain not responding to rest or medication.
Surgical Options
Surgery is rarely the first line but may be necessary in severe tendon tears or nerve compression cases. Dr. Vishal Sahni, an experienced shoulder and elbow surgeon in Nagpur, performs:
- Tendon repair or debridement
- Ulnar nerve decompression
- Bursal excision (for bursitis)
- Arthroscopic surgery for joint issues
How to Prevent Elbow Pain While Lifting?
- Use proper technique while lifting weights or objects.
- Don’t overdo repetitive movements.
- Warm up and stretch before physical activity.
- Strengthen your wrist, forearm, and shoulder muscles.
- Use ergonomically designed tools or equipment.
- Take breaks if your job involves repetitive hand use.
Why Choose Dr. Vishal Sahni – Elbow Specialist in Nagpur?
- 24+ years of orthopedic experience in India and London
- Expertise in shoulder and elbow conditions
- Advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive treatment options
- Trusted by athletes, professionals, and senior citizens alike
Why does my elbow hurt when I lift something?
The answer may be conditions like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, tendonitis, or a nerve issue. You should avoid self-diagnosing and consult an expert orthopedic doctor near you in Nagpur like Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dhantoli.
❓FAQs – Why Does My Elbow Hurt When I Lift Something?
1. Is elbow pain while lifting serious?
It can be a temporary strain, but if the pain persists or worsens, it could indicate tendonitis, nerve compression, or joint issues that need medical evaluation.
2. Can I treat elbow pain at home?
Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief can help in minor cases. But if symptoms last more than a few days, seek a doctor’s opinion.
3. Is it tennis elbow if my outer elbow hurts?
Yes, pain on the outer elbow while lifting or gripping is a classic symptom of tennis elbow.
4. Can lifting heavy weights cause elbow injuries?
Yes. Incorrect technique or overloading can strain tendons, causing tendonitis or even partial tears.
5. Why does my inner elbow hurt when I lift something?
It may be golfer’s elbow, a condition affecting the inner tendon of the elbow due to overuse.
6. Do I need surgery for elbow pain?
Most elbow conditions are treatable without surgery. Surgery is only advised in chronic or severe cases.
7. What type of doctor treats elbow pain?
An orthopedic doctor or elbow specialist is best qualified to treat these conditions.
8. Is physiotherapy helpful for elbow pain?
Yes, especially for recovery and strengthening after conditions like tennis elbow or tendonitis.
9. How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow?
Recovery may take 4–8 weeks with proper rest, therapy, and medical treatment.
10. Can arthritis cause elbow pain while lifting?
Yes, especially in older adults. The joint cartilage wears down, causing stiffness and pain.
11. What exercises should I avoid with elbow pain?
Avoid heavy lifting, wrist curls, and any motion that increases pain until you’re cleared by a doctor.
12. Can poor posture affect elbow pain?
Yes. Poor shoulder and wrist alignment can increase elbow strain during lifting.
13. Should I wear a brace for elbow pain?
Braces or straps can help offload stressed tendons and improve healing.
14. Can elbow pain radiate to the wrist or shoulder?
Yes, especially in nerve-related conditions or tendon injuries.
15. How is elbow tendonitis diagnosed?
Through physical exam, imaging like MRI, and reviewing your activity history.
16. Is numbness in fingers related to elbow pain?
Yes. It can be due to ulnar nerve compression near the elbow.
17. Can elbow pain be work-related?
Definitely. Jobs involving repetitive arm movement, typing, or lifting contribute to elbow strain.
18. What is the best way to lift to avoid elbow pain?
Use your whole arm and body, not just the elbow. Keep elbows slightly bent and avoid jerking motions.
19. Are steroid injections safe for elbow pain?
Yes, when used cautiously and only under expert medical supervision.
20. Where can I find an elbow pain specialist in Nagpur?
You can consult Dr. Vishal Sahni, a trusted orthopedic surgeon and elbow specialist at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Dhantoli, Nagpur.
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