Why Do I Have Elbow Pain While Lifting? 5 Common Causes and How to Treat It

If you’ve recently lifted weights, moved heavy objects, or even reached for something awkwardly and felt a sharp or lingering ache in your elbow, you’re not alone. Experiencing elbow pain while lifting is a common issue that can interfere with everything from exercise routines to simple household chores. Ignoring the pain or trying to “push through it” could worsen the condition.

Fortunately, understanding the root cause of your pain can guide you toward the right treatment, often starting with physical therapy. At Lattimore Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping people across Rochester and the surrounding counties recover from orthopedic injuries, including those affecting the elbow.

5 Common Causes of Elbow Pain While Lifting

The elbow is a hinge joint involved in almost every upper-body movement. When pain appears during lifting, the culprit is often a repetitive strain or an undiagnosed injury. Here are five common causes:

1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Despite its name, tennis elbow doesn’t just affect athletes. It’s a condition caused by repetitive stress to the tendons on the outside of the elbow, leading to inflammation and pain. It can make gripping and lifting uncomfortable or even impossible without discomfort. This is one of the most common sources of weightlifting elbow pain.

2. Elbow Fracture

Trauma from a fall or impact can cause one of the three bones in the elbow joint to fracture. If the pain comes with swelling, bruising, or limited movement, a fracture may be to blame.

3. Nerve Entrapment

The elbow houses multiple nerves, including the ulnar, radial, and median nerves. When compressed, these nerves can cause pain, tingling or weakness in the arm and hand—especially when lifting or gripping.

4. Elbow Sprain

A sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the elbow are overstretched or torn. This can happen from overuse or improper lifting form. Along with pain, you might notice joint instability or reduced range of motion.

5. Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the elbow joint. If you have a history of arthritis and notice stiffness, swelling or grinding sensations while lifting, inflammation may be the root cause.

5 Treatment Options to Relieve Elbow Pain from Lifting

Once the source of your pain is identified, treatment can begin. Options range from self-care techniques to professional therapies, including:

1. Ice Therapy

Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes can reduce swelling and numb acute pain, especially after an injury or flare-up.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or topical creams can reduce inflammation and offer short-term relief.

3. Bracing

Wearing a brace can help offload stress on tendons or ligaments, offering stability during recovery.

4. Steroid Injections

For persistent inflammation, corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief, though they are typically used alongside other treatments.

5. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy for elbow pain is a highly effective, long-term treatment solution. At Lattimore PT, our licensed therapists develop personalized programs to address the root cause of your pain. We use manual therapy, such as soft tissue mobilization, as well as targeted exercises to rebuild strength and restore range of motion.

Lattimore PT: Your Local Experts for Treating Elbow Pain While Lifting

At Lattimore Physical Therapy, we’ve helped countless patients across the Greater Rochester area—including Monroe, Ontario, Livingston, Wayne, and Penn Yan counties—overcome pain and regain function. Whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow, a lifting-related injury, or chronic joint pain, our team is here to support your recovery.

Don’t let elbow pain disrupt your life or fitness routine. We’ll help you get back to what you love—stronger and pain-free.

👉 Schedule your appointment today to start your personalized recovery journey.