10 Health Problems Your Elbows Might Be Trying to Warn You About

As surprising as it may sound, your elbows can be more than just joints—they can actually reflect internal health issues. Dry, flaky skin that won’t heal even with the most expensive cream, or dark, discolored elbows that appear out of nowhere, might be trying to tell you something important. In this article, we’ll explore 10 signals your elbows might be sending when something inside your body isn’t quite right.

Content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute of medical advice. Seek guidance of your doctor regarding your health and medical conditions.

Unexplained Bruising on the Elbows.

Frequent or unexplained bruising on the elbows, without obvious injury, could indicate blood clotting issues or low platelet counts. Conditions like vitamin K deficiency might manifest this way. If bruises appear easily or take longer to heal, it’s a cue to investigate blood health or medication side effects.

Warts or bumps on the elbows.

Lumps on the elbows can range from simple lipomas (benign fat accumulations) to nodules that are a symptom of more complex conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. If a lump is painful, changes in size, or interferes with movement, you should arrange an ultrasound scan and make an appointment with your doctor.

Elbow skin that’s always cold or pale.

This could be a sign of circulatory problems or hypothyroidism. If your skin is cold, pale or lifeless, it may be a sign that there is something wrong with your blood flow. If you also feel constantly tired, don’t ignore it.

Chronic redness or inflammation.

If your elbows are red, it may be a sign of chronic local inflammation. Causes can include olecranon bursitis (fluid accumulation), or systemic problems such as gout.

Black or darkened elbows.

Discoloration on the elbows can be caused by rubbing, or it can be a warning sign.

Hyperpigmentation in this area may be related to deficiencies in vitamin B12 or to hormonal problems such as hypothyroidism or insulin resistance, which can be a precursor to diabetes. If you also notice that the skin is thickening or developing an unusual texture, you should consult a dermatologist.

Pain when resting or moving them.

Elbow pain is not just an issue for professional athletes. Conditions such as golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow (epicondylitis) can result from repetitive motions or poor posture. However, they may also indicate a nerve injury, such as ulnar nerve compression, which can result in numbness in the fingers.

Dry, cracked or scaly skin.

Do your elbows resemble a pumice stone more than a body part? This could indicate a deficiency in vitamins A or D, which affect cell turnover and hydration. Alternatively, it could be psoriasis or eczema, particularly if the dryness is accompanied by itching or inflammation.

Loss of sensitivity or tingling.

That “tingling” or “electric” sensation may be due to compression of the nerves in the elbow. One of the most common causes is cubital tunnel syndrome. While it may initially seem like simple numbness, if it recurs frequently, it requires attention.

Elbows with cracks or wounds that do not close.

This could be a sign of extremely dry skin or uncontrolled diabetes. If your elbows are constantly battling with the dry air and always losing, it’s time to investigate further.

Constant itching in the elbow area.

If you’re experiencing constant itching that doesn’t improve with creams, it could be a sign of atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, or even an underlying liver condition. If the itching becomes persistent or is accompanied by redness, it’s best to avoid scratching and consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Another vital indicator of your health is your stool. While it may not be the most glamorous topic, your stool can reveal a great deal about what’s going on inside your body.