What condition is commonly referred to as "carpenter's elbow"?

The condition commonly referred to as "carpenter's elbow" is epicondylitis. This term specifically pertains to inflammation of the tendons located at the elbow joint, and it is commonly associated with repetitive arm and wrist movements, which are typical in carpentry work. Epicondylitis can manifest as pain on the inner or outer part of the elbow, depending on the specific type, known as medial or lateral epicondylitis, respectively.

The context of "carpenter's elbow" emphasizes the occupational risk associated with certain manual labor jobs, where repetitive motions can lead to overuse injuries. In this case, the repetitive strain affects the elbow tendons, resulting in discomfort and a decrease in functional ability. Understanding these underlying mechanics helps in recognizing early signs of the condition and implementing preventive measures or treatments.

While tendinitis, bursitis, and arthritis are all conditions that can affect the elbow, they are distinct from epicondylitis in terms of their cause and symptoms. Tendinitis generally refers to inflammation of the tendon itself without necessarily involving the elbow specifically, bursitis pertains to inflammation of the bursa sac near the joint, and arthritis is a disease that involves inflammation of the joint itself, often due to degenerative changes or autoimmune