What Causes Unexplained Elbow Joint Pain?

In daily life, pain in the limbs and joints is a relatively common issue. The most frequently affected joints include the knee, lumbar spine, wrist, and others—conditions such as rheumatism and lumbar osteophytosis (bone spurs) often lead to joint pain. Elbow pain, however, typically arises from external trauma, overuse, or exposure to cold and dampness. Specific causes may include fractures or dislocations, radial head subluxation, ligament injuries, muscle strains, and tendinitis. So, what could cause unexplained elbow pain? Below, we address this question.

What Causes Unexplained Elbow Pain?

1. Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a common elbow injury characterized by inflammation of the tendons originating from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus—the attachment site of the forearm extensor muscles—resulting in localized pain. This condition usually develops gradually. In its early stages, patients experience only a dull ache on the outer side of the elbow. Pain may worsen during movement of the lateral upper elbow region and sometimes radiates upward toward the shoulder or downward toward the forearm. Patients often report a sensation of soreness and stiffness, with reluctance to move the joint. Activities requiring grip strength—such as wringing out a towel or knitting—can exacerbate symptoms. Therefore, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended.

2. Arthritis

Elbow arthritis results from degeneration and wear of the articular cartilage, manifesting primarily as elbow pain and restricted range of motion. Pathologically, it involves cartilage degradation, subchondral bone sclerosis and proliferation, progressive loss of articular surface, and narrowing of the joint space. Elbow arthritis may also follow elbow fractures or dislocations—particularly when intra-articular surfaces are damaged—and inadequate reduction post-injury; overly aggressive surgical intervention that further damages the joint; or malunion of fractures leading to uneven weight-bearing across the joint, ultimately culminating in arthritis.

Knowledge Extension: What to Do for Elbow Pain

1. Physical Therapy

Early management includes rest, local heat application, immobilization of the affected limb using a triangular sling suspended across the chest, elevation, and electrotherapy to control inflammation. Physical therapy supports optimal tendon healing in a favorable environment. Acupuncture and massage therapy—including needle stimulation at specific acupoints, kneading, pressing, smoothing, and calming pressure techniques—can help activate and relax the muscles around the elbow.

2. Elbow Relaxation

Maintaining relaxation of the elbow helps alleviate pain. Immobilizing the elbow as much as possible can accelerate pain relief. Using elbow-supportive plasters or braces may prevent further injury. Applying ice for 15–20 minutes can reduce swelling, while heat therapy—such as placing an electric heating pad beneath the elbow—may relieve joint pain.

3. Acupuncture Therapy

Acupressure or acupuncture at the *Quchi* (LI11) point—located at the midpoint of the line connecting the lateral end of the transverse elbow crease and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus—and the *Shousanli* (LI10) point—situated on the dorsal radial aspect of the forearm, two cun distal to the transverse elbow crease—can effectively relieve symptoms including soreness, pain, and restricted mobility in the elbow. Moreover, stimulating these points promotes circulation of Qi and blood in the surrounding elbow tissues.

The above outlines potential causes of unexplained elbow pain. We hope this information proves helpful to you.