Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 4/10/2009

Question
Dear Doc,

I have been experiencing clicking in my right elbow whenever i straighten it(no clicking in left elbow and I'm right handed too). Recently the clicking has resulted in mild pain. I have been playing tennis for close to year on a recreational basis - close to twice a month for about 3 hours each time. Yet the pain only started this year with the clicking becoming more prevalent, though I have been playing less tennis this year.

Apart from that there's stiffness in my elbow each morning and it tends to give one loud click when i straighten it in the mornings - this click hurts the most. through the rest of the day my elbow has a few minor clicks each time i extend my arm but they don't hurt.

I'm wondering what's happening in my elbow and how i can ease the clicking and pain

Answer
Hello Nick,

  You may have "Tennis Elbow" basically overuse of the muscles in the arm which cause irritation/tendonitis of the tendon that cross over the elbow.  The clicking is caused by the tight muscles and tendons snapping over eachother or the joint.  You may want to see a Chiropractor or a massage therapist that specialize in sports injuries.  They will be able to work on the musculature and tendons in the arm/elbow breaking up and adhesions and loosen/lengthen the muscles.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.