Elbow injuries are not uncommon with very active people, especially those that play sports or do outdoor activities quite often. Sudden blows to the elbow, or injuries to the elbow tissue over a long period of time can result in great pain and inflammation. It is important to seek medical attention when such injuries occur.
Elbow Dislocation
Perhaps the most serious of elbow injuries, elbow dislocation occurs when the bones of the forearm move out of place with the bone of the upper arm. Dislocation typically occurs with contact sports when the arm is overextended, or traumatic injuries such as car accidents. With a dislocated elbow, you will often experience great pain directly in the elbow and have loss of motion in that area. Seek medical treatment if you experience this type of injury.
Nursemaid Elbow
Nursemaid elbow typically affects small children. It occurs when the bones in a child's elbow are pulled out of joint and become misaligned. Typically this occurs when the child's arm is pulled suddenly to prevent him from falling, or swinging a child around. If your child experiences great pain in the arms shortly following such event, it is important to seek medical treatment to realign the bones.
Elbow Fracture
A fracture to the elbow can cause it to swell up, become very painful, and lead to bruising in the area. A direct fall on the elbow or hand can result in an elbow fracture. Those that experience such swelling should seek medical attention early to receive x-rays to diagnose the problem.
Tendinosis
When too much stressed is placed on the elbow, typically through repetitive activity, microtears occur in the elbow. This is known as Tendinosis. The elbow is never allowed to heal properly after being torn thus, inflammation and pain occurs. This is often times referred to as "Golfer's Elbow" or "Tennis Elbow."
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs in the back of the elbow. Also known as "Popeye Elbow," it typically occurs after a blow to the elbow or another similar injury. If Bursitis occurs, blood and other fluid begins to back up, and inflammation and pain results. In order to prevent future infection, seek immediate medical attention after the injury.
Preventing Elbow Injury
Prevention of elbow injuries, especially common ones such as Golfer's Elbow, is important. Strengthening your forearm muscles and stretching before playing any sport or activity is very important. Additionally, those that lift weights are at considerable risk and should keep wrists rigid and stable to avoid injury to the elbow.
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