Differential Diagnosis for Pain at Elbow where Triceps Meets Elbow with Extension
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Triceps Tendinopathy: This condition is characterized by inflammation or degeneration of the triceps tendon, which attaches to the olecranon process at the elbow. Pain with extension is a classic symptom because it stretches or contracts the triceps tendon, exacerbating the condition.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Olecranon Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa at the back of the elbow can cause pain and swelling, especially with movement or pressure. Extension of the elbow can irritate the bursa, leading to pain.
- Elbow Strain or Sprain: Overuse or acute injury to the muscles and ligaments around the elbow can cause pain, particularly with movement such as extension.
- Radial Head Fracture or Stress Injury: Though more commonly associated with pain on the lateral side of the elbow, certain movements, including extension, can exacerbate the pain if the fracture or stress injury affects the mechanics of the elbow joint.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: Although rare and more commonly associated with lower back pain, in severe cases, it can cause referred pain or unusual sensations in the arms, including the elbows, due to compression of the spinal nerves. It's a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Infection (Septic Arthritis or Osteomyelitis): Infections in the elbow joint or bone can cause severe pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion. While less common, these conditions are serious and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Tumor: Both benign and malignant tumors can occur in the bones or soft tissues around the elbow, causing pain and other symptoms. Though rare, they are critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the Elbow: While more commonly associated with symptoms in the hand and forearm, ulnar nerve entrapment can cause pain at the elbow, especially with flexion, but in some cases, extension might exacerbate the symptoms.
- Panner Disease: A rare condition in children characterized by avascular necrosis of the capitellum, which can cause elbow pain, especially with activity or movement like extension.
- Elbow Osteochondritis Dissecans: A joint condition in which a piece of cartilage, along with a thin layer of the bone beneath it, comes loose from the end of a bone because of inadequate blood supply. It can cause pain and locking of the elbow, potentially worsened by extension.