The cause of elbow pain varies depending on how the fingers and wrist are used, where the pain is located, and which movements trigger it. Modern people in particular often experience elbow pain because computer/smartphone use, housework, and sports (golf, tennis, etc.) place strain on the tendons and muscles around the elbow.

1. Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
A condition causing pain at the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow.
▪️ Mechanism: Occurs from repeated micro-tears and inflammation at the tendon where the muscles that extend the wrist or fingers attach to the outer elbow bone.
▪️ Main Factors: Despite the name, it actually occurs more often in office workers who frequently use a mouse and keyboard, or in people who repeatedly lift objects or bend the wrist backward through housework, than in tennis players themselves.

2. Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)
A condition causing pain at the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow.
▪️ Mechanism: Occurs when excessive load damages the tendon connecting the flexor muscles — which bend the wrist inward or grip with the fingers — to the inner elbow bone.
▪️ Main Factors: Triggered by repeated movements such as a golf swing, throwing motions, hammering, or wringing out a dishcloth.

3. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Elbow Tunnel Syndrome)
Neurological pain caused by compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the inside of the elbow.
▪️ Mechanism: Occurs when the ulnar nerve, passing through the cubital tunnel behind the elbow, is compressed by thickened surrounding tissue or continuous irritation.
▪️ Characteristic Symptoms: Unlike simple muscle or tendon pain, this condition brings numbness, tingling, and reduced sensation in the ring and little fingers alongside the elbow pain. Habits like keeping the elbow bent for long periods or resting the chin on the hand can be a cause.

4. Other Causes (Arthritis and Structural Problems)
▪️ Degenerative Elbow Arthritis: Worn cartilage or bone spurs make it difficult to fully extend or bend the elbow, causing pain.
▪️ Ligament Injury and Trauma: Excessive exercise or a fall can stretch or sprain the collateral ligaments that support the elbow, reducing stability and causing pain.

In Korean medicine, elbow pain is understood as a disruption of Qi-Blood circulation (Bi-syndrome, 痺證) or as damage to the muscles and tendons from overuse (Wei-syndrome, 萎證, and injury). Treatment combines clearing local inflammation with strengthening the tendons weakened by it.

Hamsoa Family Clinic Elbow Pain Program