Tulsa Orthopedic Elbow Specialist
Elbow Anatomy
The elbow is a complex hinge joint that is subjected to much stronger forces than many hinge joints and, therefore, has several ligaments and unique bones to help reinforce it. Elbow problems can happen to golfers or weightlifters as well as gardeners and musicians who overuse their elbow or forearm extensors.
Common Elbow Problems
Elbow problems can result from repetitive movements, injury, or other conditions affecting the bones and soft tissues around the joint. The most common elbow problems include:
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Injury to the nerve passing through the cubital tunnel (on inside of elbow).
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Inflammation and pain in the extensor tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outer elbow.
Medial Epicondylitis (golfer and baseball elbow)
- Damage to the tendon that bends your wrist to your palm.
Symptoms of Elbow Problems
Your elbow problems may affect your hand or arm as well and cause symptoms such as:
- Aching pain on the inside of the elbow.
- Numbness or tingling in your hand, ring finger, or little finger.
- Pain, burning, aching on the outside of your forearm and elbow.
- Pain when raising your hand against resistance.
- Weak grip and clumsiness in your arm and hand.
Treatment Options and Procedures for Elbow Problems
You have many non-surgical treatment options available and access to arthroscopic and open surgery procedures designed to treat for your specific elbow problem, if needed.
Dr. Treat completed an orthopedic surgery fellowship with a focus on the treatment of elbow injuries and conditions. Based on your lifestyle and physical needs, Dr. Treat will recommend the surgical or non-surgical treatment that is best for you.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Elbow Problems
- Anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Braces or splints that support your elbow or immobilize it during activities.
- Elbow pads from protection against hard surfaces.
- Ice packs to reduce inflammation.
- Nerve gliding exercises.
- Resting and eliminating activities that cause or exacerbate symptoms.
- Steroid injections to help reduce swelling and pain.
- Strengthening and stretching exercises (often with a physical therapist).
- Ultrasound to break up scar tissue or increase blood flow.
Surgical Treatments for Elbow Problems
- Cubital Tunnel Release – the ligament compressing the ulnar nerve in your elbow is opened to relieve pressure on the nerve. In some cases, the nerve is relocated to a more stable position along the front of the elbow.
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) – damaged pieces of tendon (connecting your forearm muscles and bones) are removed, and the healthy part is reattached to the bone.
- Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer and Baseball Elbow) – damaged pieces of the tendon that bends your wrist to your palm are removed, and the healthy part is reattached to the bone.
Ready for Elbow Relief?
Dr. Treat will Treat You Like Family
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