Treating Elbow Pain and Injury

Compassionate, Expert Care from Orthopedic Specialists

Your elbows play a key role in everyday movement, so when they hurt, it can significantly affect your quality of life. Whether you're dealing with a sports injury, arthritis, or ongoing discomfort, the team at Orthopedic Specialists is here to help. We provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and personalized care for a full range of elbow issues.

Understanding the Anatomy of the Elbow

The elbow is a hinge joint formed by three bones: the humerus (upper arm), the radius, and the ulna (forearm). These arm bones are supported by a complex network of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, allowing for smooth motion and strength.

Because of this complexity, the elbow is vulnerable to both overuse injuries and acute trauma. Elbow pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels—from athletes and laborers to office workers and retirees.

Common Causes of Elbow Pain

Elbow pain can arise from inflammation, repetitive strain, injury, or degenerative conditions. Some of the most common issues include:

• Tendinitis (Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow)
• Sprains and Strains
• Bursitis
• Arthritis (Rheumatoid, Osteoarthritis, Gout, Psoriatic)
• Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
• Fractures or Dislocations
• Nerve compression or soft tissue injuries
• Pediatric conditions like Nursemaid’s Elbow
• Autoimmune disorders like Lupus

If you're experiencing persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, or swelling in your elbow, it's important to get an accurate diagnosis.

Signs You Should See a Specialist

It may be time to see one of our orthopedic specialists if you’re experiencing:

• Pain that lasts more than two weeks despite rest and home care
• Inability to straighten or bend the elbow
• Swelling, bruising, or redness around the joint
• Weak grip or difficulty lifting objects
• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand
• Pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
• A visible deformity or suspected fracture

Elbow Conditions We Treat

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common elbow conditions we see, and how we treat them:

Tendinitis (Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow)

Inflammation of the tendons around the elbow due to overuse or repetitive motion.
Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, corticosteroid injections, PRP therapy, or surgery if needed.

Sprains and Strains

Injury to ligaments or muscles from sudden movement or overexertion.
Treatment: R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), bracing, and rehabilitation exercises.

Bursitis

Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the elbow.
Treatment: Activity modification, ice, medications, steroid injections, or surgery for chronic cases.

Arthritis

Degeneration or inflammation of the elbow joint due to wear and tear or autoimmune disease.
Treatment: Lifestyle changes, medication, physical therapy, injections, and joint replacement surgery in severe cases.

Fractures and Dislocations

Broken or displaced bones are typically caused by trauma or falls.
Treatment: Immobilization with a cast or brace, pain management, and surgical repair if necessary.

Nerve Compression (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)

Compression of the ulnar nerve, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Treatment: Splinting, activity changes, physical therapy, and surgical decompression if needed.

Personalized Treatment Options

Every patient’s elbow condition is unique. We customize each treatment plan based on the cause, severity, and your lifestyle goals. Treatment may include:

• Non-Surgical Options:
• Rest and activity modification
• Medications (NSAIDs, prescription pain relievers)
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Braces or supports
• Injections (corticosteroids, PRP)
• Surgical Treatment:
  When nonsurgical care isn't enough, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons offer advanced procedures, including:
• Lateral epicondylitis debridement (for tennis elbow)
• Medial epicondylectomy (for golfer’s elbow)
• Cubital tunnel release
• Elbow arthroscopy
• Total elbow replacement

We always prioritize conservative treatment first and consider surgery only when necessary.

Preventing Elbow Injuries

While not all elbow pain can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

• Warming up before activity
• Using proper techniques in sports or work
• Avoiding repetitive stress
• Taking regular breaks from strenuous activity
• Wearing braces or supports if needed
• Strengthening and stretching your arms regularly

Expert Care, Close to Home

At Orthopedic Specialists, we’re proud to provide comprehensive care for elbow pain and injuries for patients in Fort Dodge and the surrounding communities. Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or surgical repair, our dedicated team will guide you every step of the way.

If you’re dealing with elbow discomfort, don’t wait. Relief is possible with expert care. Contact Orthopedic Specialists today to schedule your appointment.