Elbow pain: physiotherapy in Le Grand-Saconnex
The elbow consists of three joints connecting the humerus, the upper arm bone, with the two forearm bones: the ulna and radius. These joints share a common capsule and work together as a functional unit.
The elbow allows four movements: flexion, extension, pronation and supination. The last two allow you to turn your palm downwards or upwards. These movements are used when throwing, lifting and carrying objects.
Elbow pain can be associated with different conditions affecting the muscles, tendons, ligaments or bones. A problem affecting any of these structures can cause pain and restrict everyday movements.
Symptoms of elbow conditions
Excessive or repetitive use of the tendons and muscles can overload the soft tissues. Pain may then develop around the elbow, particularly when using the hand or wrist. Symptoms can include:
- Swelling or a feeling of warmth around the elbow ;
- Stiffness or difficulty moving the arm ;
- Pain when clenching your fist ;
- Pain when spreading your fingers ;
- Reduced strength in the arm and forearm ;
- Difficulty gripping objects, particularly with the arm straight.
- Elbow tendinopathies, including tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow ;
- Elbow bursitis ;
- Soft tissue bruising ;
- Muscle strains ;
- Fractures around the elbow ;
- Soft tissue injuries or tears ;
- Elbow dislocation;
- Nerve compression ;
- Pain referred from another area, particularly the shoulder ;
- Fibromyalgia.
Causes of elbow conditions
Elbow pain is often associated with irritation or injury affecting the soft tissues, particularly the tendons, muscles or bursae.
Several factors can contribute: joint instability, repetitive hand or arm movements, heavy lifting, muscle weakness or unsuitable sporting technique.
Some of the conditions we treat include:
Consultation and treatment
To understand the cause of your elbow problem, we begin with a discussion and a physical examination.
At Physio Santé Fit in Le Grand-Saconnex, our elbow physiotherapy aims to reduce pain, restore mobility and improve strength, as well as your awareness of the joint’s position and movement, known as proprioception.
To complement treatment, which may combine manual therapy, fasciatherapy and therapeutic massage, we provide tailored exercises to support your recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.