Elbow clicking is one of those strange sensations that many people experience but rarely talk about. For some, it happens occasionally while lifting something heavy. For others, it appears during exercise, stretching, or even while typing. And a few people feel the elbow suddenly catching or locking mid-movement, forcing them to shake it or change position to regain motion.
Most people ignore these symptoms, assuming they are harmless. But is elbow clicking really normal? When does it indicate a deeper issue? Should you wait, or should you get a specialist check-up?
This in-depth guide explains everything — causes, warning signs, common mistakes, self-care, and when to consult a shoulder–elbow–wrist specialist like Dr. Vishal Sahni.
Understanding the Elbow: Why It Clicks in the First Place
The elbow is a complex joint where three bones meet — the humerus (upper arm), radius and ulna (forearm bones). Multiple muscles, tendons, nerves and ligaments cross the joint to create smooth bending, straightening and rotation.
Because of this complexity, even small disturbances in movement can produce:
• Clicking
• Popping
• Snapping
• Grinding
• Sudden catching
• Locking with pain
Sometimes these sounds are harmless. But at other times, they reflect inflammation, cartilage wear, ligament injury or loose tissue inside the joint.
To understand the seriousness, let us break down the types of elbow clicking.
Two Types of Elbow Clicking: Harmless vs Concerning
Not all clicking is dangerous. Some clicking simply comes from natural joint movement.
1. Harmless (Physiological) Clicking
This usually occurs when:
• You stretch suddenly
• Gas bubbles form and burst inside the joint fluid
• The tendon slides over the bone
• Muscles adjust position after long rest
This clicking is:
• Soft
• Not painful
• Not repetitive
• Not restricting movement
If your elbow clicks once in a while with no discomfort, it is generally normal.
2. Concerning Clicking or Locking
This clicking is different. Warning signs include:
• Pain with every click
• The elbow gets stuck or locks
• Movement suddenly stops
• Swelling, stiffness or weakness
• Repeated clicking during daily tasks
• Clicking after injury or fall
• Clicking while lifting even light weight
When these symptoms appear, it is not normal. It may indicate a deeper orthopedic issue that needs medical evaluation.
Major Causes of Painful or Repetitive Elbow Clicking and Locking
Below are the most common medically recognised reasons your elbow may click, pop or lock repeatedly.
1. Loose Body Inside the Elbow (Cartilage or Bone Fragment)
This is one of the most common causes of sudden locking.
Particles of cartilage or bone may break off inside the joint. These fragments float around and get stuck between surfaces, causing:
• Sudden locking
• Sharp pain
• Clicks on movement
• Difficulty fully bending or straightening the elbow
This condition never improves on its own. Specialist evaluation is necessary to prevent worsening.
2. Early or Moderate Arthritis of the Elbow
Even though elbow arthritis is less common than knee or hip arthritis, it is increasing among:
• Gym-goers
• Manual workers
• Sports players
• Middle-aged adults
• People with old injuries
Arthritis causes the joint surfaces to become rough, producing:
• Persistent clicking
• Grinding sensation
• Morning stiffness
• Pain while lifting
• Swelling around the elbow
This must be addressed early to protect joint mobility.
3. Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow (Tendon Injury)
Most people know these conditions only as “outer elbow pain” or “inner elbow pain”.
But in many cases, damaged tendons cause the muscles to slide abnormally, producing a clicking or snapping sound.
Symptoms include:
• Pain when gripping
• Pain radiating down the forearm
• Stiffness
• Clicking during wrist movement
• Weakness while lifting
Without treatment, it becomes chronic and may limit arm use.
4. Ulnar Nerve Snapping or Subluxation
The ulnar nerve (popularly known as the “funny bone nerve”) runs behind the elbow.
If it slips out of position, it causes:
• A sharp snap during bending
• Tingling in ring and little finger
• Weak grip
• Hand fatigue
• Discomfort at night
This snapping sound is common in people who rest elbows frequently on hard surfaces or use laptops for long hours.
5. Elbow Ligament Injury (Common in Sports and Gym)
Ligaments stabilise the elbow joint. Injury to these ligaments, especially the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), leads to:
• Instability
• Repeated clicking
• Pain during twisting or throwing
• Feeling that elbow will “give way”
• Locking under load
This is common in:
• Weightlifting
• Badminton
• Cricket bowling
• Volleyball
• Gymnastics
Ignoring ligament injury leads to long-term instability.
6. Muscle Tightness or Imbalance
In today’s lifestyle, prolonged typing, digital dependence and smartphone use create imbalance between forearm flexor and extensor muscles.
When muscles are tight or overworked:
• Tendons glide abnormally
• Movement becomes jerky
• Clicking appears during rotation
• Stiffness after rest becomes common
Physiotherapy plays a key role in correcting this.
7. Old Elbow Injuries That Healed Incorrectly
Fractures, sprains or falls that were never treated properly can lead to:
• Persistent clicking
• Reduced motion
• Improper joint alignment
• Bone spurs
• Locking in certain angles
Many patients only realise this years after the original injury.
8. Synovitis or Inflammation Inside the Joint
The inner lining of the joint can become irritated due to:
• Repetitive work
• Injuries
• Rheumatic conditions
• Overuse
Inflamed tissue gets trapped between joint surfaces, causing:
• Painful clicks
• Swelling
• Warmth
• Restricted movement
Inflammation must be treated early to avoid long-term stiffness.
When Elbow Clicking Becomes a Warning Sign
While occasional clicking is normal, the following symptoms should never be ignored.
• Locking or getting stuck repeatedly
This is the biggest red flag that something is physically blocking the joint.
• Pain with each click
Indicates structural damage, tendon irritation or joint inflammation.
• Swelling or stiffness
Suggests arthritis, synovitis or ligament injury.
• Weakness or grip problems
Often linked with ulnar nerve or tendon conditions.
• Clicking after an injury
Always requires expert evaluation.
• Clicking that worsens over time
Indicates a progressing condition.
If even one of these happens often, you should not delay a consultation.
Why Does Ignoring Elbow Clicking Make It Worse?
Patients often assume elbow issues will “settle on their own”.
But once painful clicking begins, the underlying cause usually progresses slowly.
Ignoring it can lead to:
• Chronic pain
• Joint wear and tear
• Increasing stiffness
• Difficulty performing daily tasks
• Nerve irritation
• Reduced arm strength
• Permanent joint damage in advanced cases
Early diagnosis by a specialist like Dr. Vishal Sahni can prevent long-term complications.
How Specialists Diagnose Elbow Clicking and Locking
A detailed evaluation may include:
1. Clinical Examination
– Joint movement
– Muscle strength
– Ligament stability
– Nerve function
– Tender areas
2. X-Ray
Helpful for bone alignment, spurs, early arthritis or old injury damage.
3. Ultrasound Scan
Shows tendon tears, fluid, inflammation and nerve movement.
4. MRI Scan
Detailed view of cartilage, ligaments, loose bodies and deeper structures.
5. Movement Analysis
To study how the elbow behaves during bending and rotation.
Accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment plan.
Effective Treatment Solutions for Painful Elbow Clicking
Treatment always depends on the root cause.
Under an experienced elbow specialist in Nagpur like Dr. Vishal Sahni, the approach is always personalised.
1. Activity Modification and Rest
Reducing activities that trigger repetitive strain allows healing to begin.
Includes:
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Reduce repetitive wrist movement
• Modify work desk ergonomics
• Avoid pressure on elbows
Simple changes prevent worsening of inflammation.
2. Medication (If Required)
May include:
• Anti-inflammatory medicines
• Pain relievers
• Muscle relaxants (if spasm is present)
These help reduce pain and swelling but are not long-term solutions.
3. Targeted Physiotherapy
A crucial part of elbow treatment which focuses on:
• Strengthening weak muscles
• Stretching tight tendons
• Improving joint glide
• Preventing abnormal snapping
• Increasing motion
• Reducing stiffness
A customised plan improves long-term results.
4. Bracing or Support
Elbow straps, counter-force braces or wrist supports may be used to:
• Reduce tendon stress
• Stabilise ligaments
• Relax overworked muscles
This is especially helpful in tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow and instability.
5. Injections (If Needed)
In some cases, injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and restore smoother movement.
When performed by a trained orthopedic specialist, they are safe and highly effective.
6. Elbow Arthroscopy (Minimally Invasive Surgery)
This is required when:
• Loose bodies are present
• Joint surfaces are damaged
• Locking is frequent
• Pain persists even after conservative treatment
Through tiny key-hole incisions, the surgeon cleans and corrects internal issues.
Recovery is usually quick and movement improves significantly.
Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Elbow Clicking and Pain
These simple changes can reduce stress on the elbow.
Improve Posture
Avoid slouching, overstretching the forearm or resting elbows on hard surfaces.
Warm-Up Before Exercise
Prepares muscles and reduces snapping or popping.
Strengthen Forearm Muscles
Healthy muscles protect tendons and ligaments.
Use Ergonomic Workstation
Helps IT professionals and office workers avoid muscle imbalance.
Avoid Repetitive Strain
Take micro-breaks during typing, writing or lifting.
Apply Heat for Tightness / Ice for Inflammation
Reduces discomfort and restores smooth movement.
Why Choose London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur and Dr. Vishal Sahni?
When it comes to elbow clicking, locking, tendon injuries, nerve issues, ligament problems or chronic joint pain, choosing the right specialist makes all the difference. The elbow is a highly technical joint, and even a small misdiagnosis can lead to long-term complications. That’s why thousands of patients in Central India place their trust in Dr. Vishal Sahni and the London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur.
1. Expertise in Shoulder, Elbow and Wrist Treatments
Dr. Vishal Sahni is one of the few dedicated upper-limb orthopedic specialists in India. His focused expertise ensures:
• Accurate diagnosis of complex elbow problems
• Precise treatment planning
• Minimally invasive solutions whenever possible
• Long-term restoration of mobility and comfort
Patients who struggled for months often find relief after a single consultation.
2. International Training and Advanced Qualifications
Dr. Sahni’s educational journey is backed by globally recognised training:
MBBS, MS Orthopaedics, FRCS Ortho (London), MCh Ortho (Liverpool)
His UK-based fellowship and advanced surgical training give him unparalleled skill in:
• Arthroscopy (keyhole joint surgery)
• Tendon & ligament reconstruction
• Nerve decompression procedures
• Complex elbow injury management
This international exposure reflects in the high success rate of treatments at the clinic.
3. Modern Diagnostic Approach
London Orthopaedic Clinic uses advanced evaluation techniques to identify the exact cause of elbow clicking or locking. With premium diagnostic support, patients get:
• High-quality digital X-rays
• Ultrasound-based tendon and nerve assessment
• MRI guidance when needed
• Detailed movement and stability analysis
This ensures that no underlying issue goes unnoticed.
4. Personalised Treatment Plans, Not Generic Advice
Every patient receives a customised plan based on:
• Nature of clicking or locking
• Lifestyle and work habits
• Occupation demands
• Sports or fitness routine
• Severity of joint or tendon condition
This personalised approach leads to faster recovery and long-lasting comfort.
5. Emphasis on Conservative Management First
Not every elbow issue needs surgery.
Dr. Vishal Sahni believes in:
• Physiotherapy
• Targeted exercises
• Activity modification
• Bracing
• Medication (when required)
Surgery is recommended only when truly necessary — ensuring ethical, honest medical care.
6. Minimally Invasive Surgical Expertise (When Required)
For conditions like loose bodies, severe locking, advanced ligament injuries or cartilage issues, Dr. Sahni is highly skilled in arthroscopic elbow surgery.
Benefits include:
• Tiny incisions
• Faster healing
• Less pain
• Quick return to daily routine
His precision and experience ensure excellent long-term outcomes.
7. Patient-Friendly Environment and Transparent Communication
Patients appreciate the way Dr. Sahni:
• Explains conditions in simple terms
• Shares treatment options clearly
• Answers doubts without rushing
• Provides confidence and emotional support
• Ensures comfort throughout the treatment journey
The clinic maintains a caring, professional and comfortable environment.
8. Trusted by Patients Across Nagpur, India
London Orthopaedic Clinic has become a preferred centre for:
• Office workers with repetitive strain
• Athletes and gym-goers
• Diabetic patients
• Elderly individuals
• School children with sports injuries
• Patients with long-standing elbow problems
Word-of-mouth referrals highlight the quality and trust the clinic has built over the years.
Final Note
This article is written exclusively for Dr. Vishal Sahni, Orthopaedic Surgeon (Shoulder, Elbow & Wrist Specialist),
London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur.