Elbow pain can stem from many sources—tendon inflammation, strained muscle attachments, bone misalignment, or even a traumatic blow. Sometimes it develops gradually from repetitive motion. Other times, it appears suddenly after a twisting injury, fall, or impact.
What makes this area complex is how many structures are involved: joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and the radius and ulna bones all interact in a small space. When one part isn't functioning properly, you may feel stiffness, weakness, or even a ringing sensation.
Understanding what's triggering your discomfort is the first step toward choosing the right approach—whether you're dealing with severe pain, lingering soreness, or discomfort that comes and goes.