Avoiding Elbow Pain
Physical Therapy in East Meadow
The elbow is not a simple joint. Like the shoulder, it is fairly complex, allowing us to perform a wide range of motions with our arms. However, because it is so diverse in movements, that leaves it open for different types of injuries and pain. The elbow is made up of three major bone structures including the upper arm bone or humerus and the two bones that make up the forearm- the ulna, and radius. At the end of each of these bones, there is cartilage that helps aid the quick and smooth movement of the elbow. Cartilage also helps absorb shock or injury from a fall or hit. The cartilage is supported by even stronger tissues called ligaments which are attached to your arm muscles by tendons. All of these pieces making up the whole system work in unison to grant the elbow flexibility.
The entire joint system is surrounded by nerves, so if anything happens to one part of it, it can cause a lot of pain throughout. The most common injuries that occur in the elbow are dislocation, fracture, strains, and sprains. Strains are the most easily inflicted and, luckily, are the least painful. These occur when you lift something that is a bit too heavy or overuses the elbow with vigorous movements found in such activities like sports or dancing. Sprains are more likely to affect athletes who perform throwing motions for items such as balls or racquets.
Ways to avoid these injuries- or elbow pain in general- would be to do a lot of strength training and stretching. Strength training prepares you for lifting or throwing any kind of weighted object. When it comes to being prepared for movement without pain, the best people to discuss your joints with are physical therapists. At Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Meadow, we offer sports and movement training to help athletes avoid elbow pain or serious injury. Our dedicated staff understands that everyone is different and takes the time to accurately evaluate each patient to develop the best possible course for recovery. ISPT has offices in East Northport, Huntington, Nesconset, Glen Cove, and East Meadow to better serve the residents of Long Island for all their physical therapy needs. Give one of our offices a call today!
