Soft Lump on Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - Orthopedics

More Info

---

The soft lump you are experiencing on the inner side of your left elbow could be indicative of several conditions, but it is essential to consider the context of your symptoms and any previous injuries. Given that you mentioned a prior incident while playing basketball where your elbow may have been forced outward, it is possible that the lump is related to that injury.


Possible Causes
1. Bursitis: One common cause of a soft lump in the elbow area is olecranon bursitis, which occurs when the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues) becomes inflamed. This can happen due to trauma, repetitive motion, or prolonged pressure on the elbow.

2. Lipoma: A lipoma is a benign tumor made of fat tissue. They are usually soft, movable, and painless. While they can occur anywhere in the body, they are often found in the upper body, arms, and thighs.

3. Ganglion Cyst: These are non-cancerous lumps that often develop along the tendons or joints of wrists and hands but can also appear in the elbow area. They are filled with a jelly-like fluid and can vary in size.

4. Tendonitis: If you have been engaging in activities that put stress on your elbow, such as basketball, you may have developed tendonitis, which can cause swelling and discomfort in the area.

5. Injury-related changes: The clicking or popping sound you hear when you extend your arm could be related to changes in the joint structure due to your previous injury. This might involve the ligaments or tendons around the elbow.


Symptoms to Monitor
While you mentioned that the lump is not painful, it is essential to monitor for any changes in symptoms, such as:
- Increased pain or swelling
- Changes in range of motion
- Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
- Changes in the appearance of the lump (size, color, etc.)

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Ice: If the lump is due to inflammation, resting the elbow and applying ice can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate any discomfort and reduce inflammation.

3. Physical Therapy: If the lump is related to an injury, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve flexibility.

4. Corticosteroid Injection: If bursitis is diagnosed and does not respond to conservative treatment, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation.

5. Surgical Intervention: In rare cases, if the lump is causing significant discomfort or is suspected to be a ganglion cyst or lipoma that is growing, surgical removal may be considered.


When to Seek Medical Attention
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if:
- The lump grows in size or becomes painful.

- You experience significant limitations in your range of motion.

- You notice any signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever.


Conclusion
In summary, while the soft lump on your elbow may not currently be causing significant discomfort, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and consider consulting a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to assess the lump further and determine the best course of action. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially if the lump is related to an underlying condition that may require treatment.