Hi, I do not mean to alarm you but popping sounds on elbow usually may indicate a sprain, fracture, etc. Severe muscle strain on lifting heavy weights or on exerting the muscle strenuously can cause muscle tear leading to severe pain, swelling and sometimes bruising. If a similar patient comes to my clinic, I would recommend applying warm compresses alternating with ice packs, gentle massages with aromatic oils but while using a splint (to avoid further injury), pain killer sprays, taking over the counter pain killer medications, etc., that may help in the meanwhile. But a doctor s visit is important, wherein a physical examination, tests such as blood work, Xray, imaging studies, etc. may be done and cast or a brace may be applied, if needed based on the test reports. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Divya Teja Pasupuleti, General & Family Physician