Pain in the left elbow
March 17, 2014 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg
I have been experiencing pain in my left elbow for about 14 days. I regularly take Arnica globules, have already used Rivanolum wraps, and used Retterspitz wraps. My friend even brought me a zinc paste bandage. Nothing helps. At the end of February, I stumbled and fell on my right side. I no longer feel anything there. My elbow is also slightly swollen. The bone hurts me, but not the elbow (where you lean on) but a little above. I have a phobia of doctors, so I can't bring myself to make an appointment. What could this be? About 2 years ago, I had bursitis in the same elbow, but back then the bone didn't hurt me.
Dear patient,
no matter how well-intentioned and comprehensive advice you may find on the internet regarding the possible causes of your symptoms, it cannot replace an examination in person and remains speculative.
To avoid health damage, it is important that you still seek out a trusted doctor after reading my thoughts, so that they can conduct an examination and recommend further measures.
Initially, it seems that bursitis can be ruled out, as the pain you are experiencing is different this time.
In addition to irritation/overload of the triceps tendon located on the back of the lower part of the upper arm, muscle overload/strain at the tendon insertion site is also a possibility.
This can best be distinguished through a manual examination, which is unfortunately not possible here.
Regarding the "deep pain" or bone pain you have described, the joint capsule of the elbow may also be involved, which can be diagnosed through touch and pressure examinations.
Whether inflammatory processes are at play can be confirmed or ruled out through a blood test. Finally, to rule out the possibility of any changes to the humerus bone, an X-ray is recommended.
Since you have already tried so much with alternative medicine, which is completely valid and effective in many cases, I can only advise you to now undergo the comprehensive examinations described above in person, despite any anxiety you may have, in order to not overlook any serious deviations.
With best regards,
Dr. R. Berg
