Tulsa’s Foremost Authority in Advanced Elbow Surgery
Dr. Treat is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in advanced elbow care.
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Innovative Expertise in Orthopedic Elbow Care
Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Elbow Specialist in Tulsa, Oklahoma
The elbow is a unique hinge joint designed to withstand significant forces. Because of its complex structure and constant use, elbow conditions requiring specialized treatment are relatively common. Dr. Chris Treat was fellowship-trained at the renowned Cleveland Shoulder Institute to treat both common and complex elbow conditions using advanced arthroscopic and open surgical techniques.
What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Common Elbow Problems?
Elbow problems are often caused by repetitive use, overuse injuries, acute trauma, or degenerative conditions that develop over time. These issues can affect the bones, tendons, ligaments, and nerves that work together to support movement and stability.
Common overuse conditions include cubital tunnel syndrome, lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), and medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow, pitcher’s elbow, or baseball elbow).
Symptoms may include pain or tenderness around the elbow and forearm, stiffness or limited range of motion, weakness in the arm or grip, swelling, and numbness or tingling that may radiate into the forearm or hand.
How Do I Know if I Need Elbow Surgery?
Many common elbow conditions can be treated conservatively at home without surgery, but when symptoms persist or begin to limit strength, mobility, or daily function, surgical treatment may be recommended.
Dr. Chris Treat completed an orthopedic surgery fellowship with a focus on the treatment of elbow injuries and conditions and will recommend the surgical or non-surgical approach that best aligns with your lifestyle and physical needs.
Surgical Treatments for Elbow Problems
When conservative treatment is ineffective, elbow conditions may be treated with arthroscopic and open surgical options, including:
- Elbow joint replacement (arthroplasty)
- Joint repair or reconstruction
- Fracture fixation (plates, screws, or pins)
- Ligament repair or reconstruction
- Tendon repair
- Nerve decompression or repair
- Arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery)
Non-Surgical Treatments for Elbow Problems
When appropriate, many elbow conditions can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatment options, including:
- Activity modification and rest
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical therapy/strengthening exercises
- Bracing or compression support
- Ice therapy
- Heat therapy
Elbow Surgery Options
Cubital Tunnel Release
Cubital Tunnel Release
A small incision is made to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow, reducing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm.
Lateral Epicondyle Release
Lateral Epicondyle Release
Damaged tendon tissue is removed and released from the outer elbow to relieve pain and restore function associated with tennis elbow.
Medial Epicondyle Release
Medial Epicondyle Release
Tightened or damaged tendon tissue is released from the inner elbow to reduce pain and improve function associated with a condition known as golfer’s elbow, pitcher’s elbow, or baseball elbow.
Medial Epicondylectomy
Medial Epicondylectomy
A portion of the medial epicondyle is removed to reduce pressure and irritation on the ulnar nerve and surrounding structures.
Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow Arthroscopy
Using a minimally invasive technique, a small camera is inserted through tiny incisions to diagnose and treat conditions within the elbow joint.
Distal Biceps Tendon Repair
Distal Biceps Tendon Repair
The torn biceps tendon is reattached to the forearm bone to restore strength and function in the arm.
Total Elbow Replacement
Total Elbow Replacement
Damaged parts of the elbow joint are replaced with artificial components to relieve pain and restore movement.
