Why Does My Elbow Hurt? When to See an Elbow Specialist

6 Nov 2017 General , , , ,

We are all busy people. No matter what our profession or responsibilities, we sometimes have a way of filling up our schedule to the point that health takes a back seat. For instance, if your elbow hurts, you are going to ignore it for as long as possible. Sometimes we think that a little movement, stretching, or rest can work out the kinks. But if it doesn’t get better on its own, when is it time to see an elbow specialist?

Whether the pain is sharp, following some trauma like a fall or other accident, or it has been a steady ache that eventually interferes with movement, elbow pain can hold you back from fully participating in your life and activities. These are some of the common elbow injuries that people experience:

 

·       Sprains, or an injury to the tendons within the elbow

·       Strains, or a pulled muscle caused by overstretching or over-exertion

·       Muscle tears caused by an accident or overuse

·       Fractures to the bones of the arm that meet in the elbow (humerus, radius, or ulna)

·       Dislocation to the joint when it comes out of position and prevents smooth movement

·       Bursitis, swelling behind the elbow due to overuse

·       Tendonitis, when the tendons in the elbow joint become inflamed (includes tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or Little League elbow)

·       Pinched nerve within the joint that can cause pain or numbness and tingling down the arm.

·       Torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), the most common elbow ligament injury for people who throw balls

 

Because many of these injuries need a correct diagnosis and proper treatment to heal, it is vital that you see an elbow specialist, or orthopedic surgeon who specializes in elbows and other upper body parts. Tucson Orthopaedic Institute in Southern Arizona features Ortho Fast Track to serve patients with acute injuries like broken bones within a few days of the injury. Even same day appointments are available with a physician referral. Our conveniently located facilities have the latest in diagnostic equipment to save valuable time. If your elbow hurts, don’t wait until the pain is unbearable. Call the office closest to you with your questions, or schedule an appointment online today.

Treating Tennis Elbow

6 Jan 2017 General , , ,

Treating Elbow PainTennis elbow is another term for tendonitis that affects the elbow. Tendonitis is a repetitive stress injury, or an injury that results from overuse of tendons and muscles in a specific area. Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of arm, forearm, and hand muscles, which results in elbow pain. While it is a common injury for those who play tennis, athletes in other sports or employees who use vibrating equipment (e.g., a jackhammer) or their forearms during manual labor are also susceptible.

The medical term for tennis elbow is lateral epicondylitis, which stems from the part of the elbow that is affected: the lateral epicondyle, or the bony area on the outside of the elbow where the muscles and tendons of the forearm attach.

Most cases of tennis elbow respond to nonsurgical treatments, and resting the forearm from the activity causing the pain is the most important part of treatment. Rest allows the small tears in the tendon to heal. The length of time you need to rest depends on how severe your condition is. It might be necessary to rest for a few weeks to a few months. In addition to rest, treatments may include:

  • Ice: Apply ice to the outside of your elbow as soon as you notice pain. Use for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can help relieve pain.
  • Corticosteroid medication: Your doctor may inject a corticosteroid at the outside of the elbow to relieve pain and enable you to participate in physical therapy.
  • Physical therapy: A physical therapist will prescribe specific exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles and tendons around the injured elbow. Your PT can also teach you new techniques to handle movements that aggravate your condition.
  • Counterforce brace: This is an elastic band that wraps around the forearm just below the injured elbow. It may relieve symptoms by spreading pressure throughout the arm instead of putting it all on the tendon.
  • Surgery: This is a last resort if other treatment isn’t helpful. Your doctor may recommend surgery if your elbow pain doesn’t improve after 6 to 12 months of rest and rehab, or if you have a large tear in the tendon.

If you have or think you may be experiencing tennis elbow and at-home treatment is not relieving your pain, make an appointment with one of our orthopedists at a Tucson Orthopaedic Institute office near you.

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