THANKS guys, that really helps! I appreciate all the comments, and it definitely seems to make mores sense now. The tips will come in handy next workout. I work in a hosp, and decided to ask around independantly to see what a few docs, nurses, xrays techs and ultrasound techs say. You wouldn't believe the difference. Everyone seemed to say something different. As if I wasn't confused enough already. Some docs said the actual joint was loosened and it would tighten up in a week or two. The xray techs just said don't worry about it, you're just getting old. That happens when you get old." The ultrasound tech said that the tendon was abrating the cartilage and wearing it down, and that it was inflamed and that's why it was popping. The opinion that seems to make the most sense was a D.O. that said I might have a small crack in the cartilage and the tendon was sliding over the crack and making a clicking/popping sound." I don't think anything is actually injured or inflamed because there isn't any swelling or pain. So, how could the tendon be inflamed? Or a joint be loosened? Can you believe these were doctors that said this? How stupid. The D.O. seemed to know his stuff though.
Just to clarify, I was curling with the straight bar using a wide grip, perhaps too wide. And, I haven't been curling very often, and had taken 6 months off training due to a family problem I was having, so it's not like I was wearing my joint down or straining it. I never do preacher curls, because I didn't want elbow problems. And, that was like my 4th curling workout with the straight bar, and it wasn't like weight I couldn't handle, just a little heavier that what I was used to. Go figure.
I just want to make sure on what you guys think I should do.
Should I lay off arms for a while, or just go back to curls using hammers or the ez bar. Will this aggrivate the joint and make the popping situation worse since I'm still training the elbow? Or since it's at a different angle and there is no popping I'm ok?
Are other exercises involving the elbow ok, like bench and military presses?
If you guys could help me out the one more time, damn I would be ssoooooooo thankful. I know it's a little involved with the details but I just want to give you guys the most info poss on the situation so you know what s goin on. I know I sound paranoid, but I am kinda paranoid about getting injured, I've heard some horror stories I guess. Thanks again guys for your help!! I will look forward to the replys and your help!!