In both amateur weight lifters and long-term lifters, elbow joint pain is a common complaint. Weight lifting puts a lot of stress on joints, particularly the knees and the elbows. There are several causes of elbow pain, such as over-lifting, improper form, jerking movements and muscular imbalance. Arthritis is another cause of elbow joint pain, which may be exacerbated by weight lifting.
Tennis Elbow
Lateral epicondylitis, also called tendinitis or tennis elbow, is caused by overuse and the repetitive motions involved in weight lifting. The tendons, which attach muscle to bone, get inflamed and cause pain. Tennis elbow causes pain localized to 1/2 inch to 1 inch below the bony part of the outside of the elbow, and may spread to the wrist and hand. Tennis elbow may also cause weakness in the wrist. The pain may be immediate or may take up to three days following the weight lifting session to develop. Tennis elbow may be treated at home with rest, ice, immobilization of the elbow, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, and elevation of the elbow. Some cases of tennis elbow may see improvement with ultrasound treatment. Severe tendinitis that does not improve may require surgery.
Golfer's elbow
Golfer's elbow, also called medial epicondylitis, affects the tendon of the anterior, or inner, forearm at the elbow. People who repeatedly bend their wrists and clench their fingers by doing such things as holding onto weight bars are more likely to develop medial epicondylitis. The treatment for golfer's elbow is the same as for tennis elbow: rest, ice, elevation, immobilization, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Ultrasound treatment may also be effective. Surgery is rarely necessary, but may be an option. Stretching and physiotherapy is usually recommended. Strong forearm muscles help to prevent golfer's elbow.
Arthritis
Arthritis is caused by inflammation of the joints. The daily wear and tear of habitual weight lifting may cause osteoarthritis symptoms, or exacerbate existing arthritis of the elbow. People with previous injuries to the elbow are more prone to developing arthritis in that joint. The possible methods of treatment include physical therapy to build muscle strength around the joint that is affected; braces; pain medication; anti-inflammatory medication; and surgery for severe or advanced cases.
Caution
When weight lifting, always use proper form and never jerk the weights; perform the movement in a slow and controlled manner. Take care not to use too much weight too soon and do not overwork a muscle group. Always rest each muscle group 48 hours between workouts. If you do not know how to perform a certain move, ask a trainer or buddy. Never work through pain, because pain is your body's way of telling you to stop. Always use a spotter when using heavy weights. Maintain a rigid wrist during movements to prevent golfer's elbow.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Golfer's Elbow
- "Bodybuilding Anatomy"; Nick Evans; 2007
- "American College of Sports Medicince Resources for the Personal Trainer", 2007
- SportsInjuryClinic.net: Tennis Elbow
- MayoClinic.com: Arthritis
