Elbow Pain Specialist in London
With the right diagnosis and treatment, most causes of elbow pain can be managed effectively
What Is Elbow Pain?
Elbow pain refers to discomfort, stiffness, or soreness in and around the elbow joint. Symptoms can range from mild irritation during certain movements to persistent pain that affects work, exercise, and everyday activities. Accurate assessment is important to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
How Are Elbow Problems Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Mr Ahsan Akhtar will assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a detailed examination of the elbow. Where necessary, imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound scans, or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment recommendations.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Pain on the outside of the elbow caused by irritation of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, often linked to repetitive gripping or lifting activities.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow resulting from strain or degeneration of the tendons on the medial side of the joint
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, which can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and discomfort affecting the ring and little fingers.
Olecranon Bursitis
Inflammation of the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow, leading to swelling, tenderness, and discomfort.
Elbow Arthritis
Degenerative or inflammatory changes within the elbow joint that can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement.
Elbow Fractures
Breaks involving the bones of the elbow, often occurring after a fall or direct injury and requiring prompt specialist assessment.
Elbow Dislocation
A serious elbow injury where the bones become displaced, causing significant pain, swelling, and loss of function.
Specialist Elbow Care from Mr Ahsan Akhtar
Mr Ahsan Akhtar is a specialist shoulder and elbow surgeon with extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of elbow conditions. He provides personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient, offering expert care for everything from sports injuries and nerve compression syndromes to arthritis and complex elbow trauma. His focus is on achieving an accurate diagnosis and helping patients return to comfortable, pain-free function as quickly and safely as possible.
Treatment Options for Elbow Pain
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many elbow conditions can be managed without surgery using a combination of activity modification, physiotherapy, pain management strategies, and specialist rehabilitation programmes tailored to your diagnosis.
Injection Therapy
Mr Ahsan Akhtar offers injection treatments where appropriate to help reduce pain and inflammation, improve function, and support recovery as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Elbow Surgery
When non-surgical treatments are unlikely to provide sufficient relief, Mr Ahsan Akhtar offers specialist surgical treatment for a range of elbow conditions, with care tailored to each patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
Book an Elbow Consultation
If elbow discomfort is affecting your daily activities, work, or sport, specialist assessment can help identify the cause and guide the most appropriate treatment. Mr Ahsan Akhtar offers expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans for a wide range of elbow conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a specialist for elbow pain?
If your pain persists for several weeks, is worsening, or is affecting your ability to work, exercise, or carry out everyday activities, it is advisable to seek specialist assessment.
What are the most common causes of elbow pain?
Common reasons why your elbow might hurting include bursitis, fractures, dislocations, arthritis, nerve compression conditions such as cubital tunnel syndrome, and overuse injuries affecting the tendons around the elbow.
Will I need a scan for my elbow problem?
Not always. Many elbow conditions can be diagnosed through a detailed consultation and examination. However, X-rays, ultrasound scans, or MRI scans may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or assess the severity of the condition.
Can a painful elbow be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many elbow conditions respond well to non-surgical treatments such as activity modification, physiotherapy, medication, bracing, or injection therapy. Surgery is usually considered when symptoms persist despite conservative treatment.
How do I book an appointment with Mr Ahsan Akhtar?
You can arrange a consultation by contacting London Shoulder & Arm or using the online booking form to schedule an appointment at one of the available London clinic locations.