Sharp Stabbing Pain When Leaning on Elbow

Imagine resting on your elbow for support or a moment of relaxation, only to feel a stabbing pain. Many people struggle with this condition.

But why do some people experience sharp stabbing pain when leaning on elbow?

Bones, muscles, tendons, and nerves all must work in harmony for our complex and delicate bodies to operate properly. This sharp stabbing pain can appear when this delicate equilibrium is disturbed, whether by injury, misuse, or underlying disorders. This can happen because of cubital tunnel syndrome also. Cubital tunnel syndrome may result from elbow fractures or dislocations in the past, osteoarthritis, and bone spurs.

Join us on a journey as we investigate the plethora of causes behind this pain and how to get relief from this physical agony.

What Causes Sharp Stabbing Pain When Leaning on Elbow?

There can be multiple causes behind this piercing pain. Here, I am listing a few major causes of stabbing pain.

Bursitis of The Elbow:

An inflammation of the bursa sac is known as bursitis. The Bursa sac is a fluid-filled cushioning sac close to the elbow joint that is frequently brought on by trauma or repeated pressure on the elbow. When pressure is applied to the afflicted region, this can cause acute, stabbing pain.

Tennis Elbow:

This happens due to overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons that connect to the lateral epicondyle. People who participate in repetitive wrist and arm motions, such as playing tennis or using a computer mouse repeatedly, are frequently reported to have this ailment. Due to the tension on the impacted tendons, leaning on the elbow can cause sudden, severe discomfort.

Golfer’s Elbow:

This ailment is brought on by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons that join to the medial epicondyle. Medial epicondylea is a bony protrusion on the inside of the elbow. Golfing and other activities that require repeated wrist and forearm motions, such as grasping something repeatedly, can cause a golfer’s elbow to develop. In this scenario, leaning on the elbow might make the discomfort worse.

Sprain or Strain in The Elbow:

The elbow’s ligaments, muscles, or tendons may get injured due to a quick impact, repeated movements, or excessive force. Leaning on the elbow may exert pressure on strained or damaged tissues, resulting in excruciating agony.

Chronic Cubital Tunnel Syndrome:

Long-term elbow bending can irritate or compress the cubital tunnel, a channel on the side of the elbow. This can result in excruciating pain, numbness, and tingling. The sensations may worsen if you lean on your elbow to compress the nerve further.

Osteoarthritis of The Elbow: 

The elbow joint’s cartilage degenerates over time due to degenerative joint disease. Pain and a restricted range of motion may arise from this. The previously damaged joint in the elbow can cause intense, stabbing pain when pressure is applied, such as when leaning on it.

Fracture or Dislocation of The Elbow: 

An accident or severe injury that results in a break or displacement of the bones in the elbow joint can cause instability or misalignment of the bones. Leaning on the afflicted elbow can result in excruciating agony.

Symptoms

These specific symptoms may be a sign of several underlying diseases or injuries that affect the elbow joint. Depending on the underlying reason, pain may be constant or intermittent.

• Throbbing pain in the area of the elbow
• Pressure on the elbow, especially when leaning on it, worsens the pain.
• The patient experience pain in the upper arm or forearm
• Tenderness and touch sensitivity in the vicinity of the injured region
• Elbow joint with a restricted range of motion
• Inflammation or swelling at the elbow
• Possible tingling or numbness in the fingers or hand
• Difficulty lifting or holding things with the afflicted arm, among other tasks that need it to be used.
• Repetitive motions and vigorous activity might make the pain worse.

Home Remedies to Reduce Sharp Stabbing Pain When Leaning on Elbow

If you ever experience this kind of pain, you can follow these home remedies to get comfort.

Rest And Rejuvenate:

Avoid doing things or moving in ways that make the discomfort worse, including leaning on the afflicted elbow. Rest your elbow for a sufficient amount of time to promote healing and minimize inflammation.

Heat And Cold Therapy:

Apply ice or cold packs to the aching region for 15-20 minutes numerous times throughout the day. This may help to lessen swelling and numb the region, relieving discomfort momentarily. As an alternative, you might try taking warm baths or applying warm compresses to the affected area after the acute phase has gone. It will help the muscles to relax and improve blood flow.

Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers: 

Ibuprofen or naproxen can aid with pain relief and reduce inflammation. These are NSAIDs known to reduce pain.

Mild Strengthening And Stretching Exercises:

You can begin doing mild range-of-motion exercises to keep your elbow joint flexible once the initial discomfort has subsided. Exercises that improve the surrounding muscles’ strength can also aid in stabilizing the joint and preventing future damage. To make sure you’re doing the exercises correctly and at the right stage of recuperation, you should speak with a physical therapist.

Ergonomic Improvements: 

To lessen stress on the elbow joint, evaluate and modify your workstation or activities. Adopting an ergonomic chair, altering the desk’s height, or employing cushioned supports might assist in reducing elbow stress.

Creams And Gels:

Topical therapies, such as over-the-counter painkilling lotions or gels with substances like menthol or capsaicin, can provide relief for some patients. These items can temporarily reduce pain and produce a calming effect.

When to See A Doctor?

Source: verywellhealth

In case your condition gets serious, and home remedies are not sufficient for you to get relief, then you must see a doctor. Look for these signs and take them as an indication to visit a doctor.

• If the sudden stabbing pain lasts for a long time or gets worse over time.
• If the area surrounding the elbow joint is very swollen, red, or heated.
• If the discomfort prevents you from extending your elbow fully.
• If the elbow joint is clearly deformed or out of position.
• If your hand or fingers are weak, numb, or tingly
• If homemade cures or over-the-counter painkillers are ineffective in relieving the discomfort.
• If the discomfort considerably impairs your capacity to carry out everyday tasks.
• If you’ve ever had arthritis or another ailment affecting your joints and your symptoms, have gotten worse or new.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Why Does The Tip of My Elbow Feel Pain When Touched?

Inflammation of one or both of the two tendons in the elbow is the most typical cause of elbow discomfort. Tendinitis is the term for this condition, which frequently results from overuse. If your elbow is aching, it’s better to consult a doctor.

• What Are The Symptoms of Pinched Nerve in Elbow?

Numerous symptoms may appear as a result of an elbow-pinched nerve. The most typical symptoms are elbow pain that is sudden or shooting, numbness or tingling in the forearm, hand, or fingers. Weakness in hands or trouble holding items is also a possible symptom. Bending or straightening the elbow might worsen the pain, which may spread from the elbow to the fingers. Additionally, people may feel more sensitive to touch in the vicinity of the afflicted area, as well as their hands. Seek medical assistance if you think you have a pinched nerve in your elbow for a correct diagnosis and effective treatment.

• Why Do I Also Have Neck And Shoulder Ache And Acute Elbow Pain?

The muscles, nerves, and joints in the shoulder, neck,  and elbow are interrelated, and the relationship between these joints is intricate.. A pinched nerve in the neck might result in sharp elbow pain along with neck and shoulder discomfort that radiates down the arm. Bad posture, muscular imbalances, or repetitive strain injuries may also influence the development of these symptoms.

Bottom Line

In summary, experiencing a sharp stabbing pain when leaning on the elbow might be annoying and painful. It is a reminder of the complexity and fragility of our bodies. While the underlying reasons for the pain may range from overuse injuries to nerve compression, with a proper diagnosis, you can start your healing journey soon. Let this discomfort thus serve as a motivator for self-care, a prompt to pay attention to your body.