With several ligaments, bones and muscles in the elbow joint, it's no surprise that you can easily sustain an injury. If you lift weights regularly or suddenly increase your weight load, you're more likely to experience a sore elbow. Poor technique can also trigger pain by putting added pressure on your bones and tendons. In many cases, the soreness may be temporary and not serious. But visit a doctor if you feel sharp or lasting pain.
Tennis Elbow
Despite the name, tennis elbow isn't confined to racket sports. Many people with a sore elbow from lifting weights may be suffering from tennis elbow, and the condition is a little more common in frequent weightlifters. Tendons in the elbow become inflamed from overuse and excess strain. You may find it difficult to straighten your arm or hold heavier objects. Resting for a week or more may be enough to reduce your symptoms, but if you experience sharp pains or the soreness lasts longer than a couple of weeks, speak to your doctor, who may recommend an anti-inflammatory.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs in the elbow when small cavities around the elbow tendons get trapped or inflamed. These cavities are filled with fluid, helping your joints move freely and without friction. If you're lifting weights every day or pushing your limits regularly, you can develop a sore elbow from bursitis. Rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can often help recovery.
Serious Problems
In some cases, a sore elbow after weight lifting could be a sign of a more serious problem -- particularly if you felt a sharp pain or heard a crack while lifting. According to the Family Health Guide of the Harvard Medical School, you should seek medical help if your elbow displays one of several symptoms, including excessive swelling, changes to the shape of the elbow, bruising, bleeding or pain when you move your arm. In any of these cases, go to an emergency room as soon as possible; you may have fractured a bone.
Exercises
After rest and possible ice treatment, you can start trying exercises to reduce soreness when weightlifting. The McKinley Health Center suggests starting with exercises that take the pressure off your joint and loosen your ligaments. For example, try stretching your sore arm out in front of you with the palm face down. Use your other hand to gently bend your hand toward your wrist and hold for 30 seconds. Do this 10 times in a row, three times per day. Repeat the movement but lift your hand backward toward the top of your wrist instead of downward.
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