Skip to main content

Elbow Pain

Elbow Pain Treatment in Brooklyn, NY

Elbow pain can develop from overuse, injury, degeneration, or strain affecting the joint, tendons, ligaments, or surrounding muscles. Because elbow pain often interferes with gripping, lifting, and repetitive arm movements, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, elbow pain is evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying the primary pain generator and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.

Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in image-guided joint and musculoskeletal care.

Book an Appointment

What Is Elbow Pain?

Elbow pain refers to discomfort arising from the structures that stabilise and move the elbow joint, including tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, and surrounding muscles. Pain may occur on the inside or outside of the elbow or radiate into the forearm.

Elbow pain may be:

  • Acute

    following injury or sudden strain

  • Subacute

    persisting beyond expected healing

  • Chronic

    developing gradually or recurring over time

Identifying the underlying source of pain is key to effective treatment.

Common Elbow Pain Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition and may include:

Because symptoms can overlap across elbow conditions, further evaluation is often required.

  • Pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow

  • Pain with gripping, lifting, or repetitive arm use

  • Weakness or reduced grip strength

  • Tenderness over tendons or joint surfaces

  • Stiffness or limited range of motion

  • Pain that worsens with activity or prolonged use

Common Causes of Elbow Pain We Evaluate

Elbow pain can develop due to several conditions, including:

  1. Tendon overuse injuries (such as tennis or golfer’s elbow)

  2. Ligament strain or instability

  3. Degenerative joint changes

  4. Repetitive occupational or sports-related stress

  5. Prior elbow injury or trauma

  6. Muscle imbalance or poor biomechanics

How Elbow Pain Is Evaluated

Evaluation focuses on determining the primary source of elbow pain and how it affects function. A physician-led assessment may include:

  • Detailed clinical history and physical examination

  • Assessment of elbow movement, strength, and stability

  • Review of prior imaging (MRI, ultrasound, or X-ray), when available

  • Ultrasound-guided diagnostic injections, when appropriate, to clarify pain sources

This structured approach helps differentiate tendon, joint, ligament, and muscle-driven elbow pain.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Elbow Pain

Treatment recommendations depend on diagnosis, symptom severity, and functional goals. Non-surgical options may include:

All interventions are selected as part of a comprehensive care plan focused on restoring strength, function, and comfort.

When a Specialist Evaluation May Help

You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:

  • Elbow pain persists or worsens over time

  • Pain interferes with work, sports, or daily activities

  • Physical therapy or medications have not provided relief

  • Surgery has been suggested, but non-surgical options are desired

  • Weakness or instability develops

A comprehensive evaluation can help clarify the cause of elbow pain and outline appropriate next steps.

Related Upper Extremity Conditions

Schedule an Elbow Pain Evaluation

If elbow pain is limiting your strength, function, or quality of life, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and guide appropriate non-surgical care.

Book an Appointment