Elbow

Elbow Conditions and Treatments at Golden State Orthopedics & Spine (GSOS)

Elbow surgery and other non-surgical treatments may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including elbow pain and injury. The elbow is particularly susceptible to stress injuries, which can occur acutely from a specific one-time injury or develop over time due to overuse and repetitive movements. Many sports, hobbies, and occupations involve repetitive arm and elbow movements that can lead to wear and tear, causing pain and injury.

Golden State Orthopedics & Spine (GSOS) employs a multi-faceted approach to treating elbow pain and injuries. Treatment plans vary depending on the cause and severity of symptoms and may include conservative management or surgical intervention. Our highly trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in elbow surgery to correct even the most complex issues.

Common Conditions Treated at GSOS

Arthritis: Arthritis in the elbow can result from wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or an autoimmune condition (rheumatoid arthritis). Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Treatment options range from medication and physical therapy to surgical procedures like joint replacement or arthroscopy.

Bursitis: Elbow bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the elbow joint. This condition often results from repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on the elbow. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and limited movement. Treatment may include rest, ice, medications, and in severe cases, aspiration or surgery.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Neuropathy): Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. Conservative treatments include bracing and physical therapy, while severe cases may require surgical decompression or transposition of the nerve.

Dislocation: Elbow dislocation happens when the bones of the forearm become displaced from their normal position. It can be caused by trauma or a fall onto an outstretched arm. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and deformity. Treatment typically involves reduction to realign the bones, followed by immobilization and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair ligaments or other structures.

Fractures: Elbow fractures can involve any of the three bones that form the elbow joint (humerus, radius, and ulna). Fractures are often caused by falls, direct blows, or traumatic injuries. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the elbow. Treatment may involve casting or splinting, but severe fractures often require surgical fixation with plates, screws, or pins.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Golfer’s elbow is characterized by pain and inflammation on the inside of the elbow due to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. Common in golfers and racquet sports players, symptoms include pain and tenderness. Treatments include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach. This condition is common in athletes and individuals who perform repetitive arm motions. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications. Severe cases may benefit from platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or surgery.

Little League Elbow (Pitcher’s Elbow or Medial Apophysitis): Little League elbow is a condition seen in young athletes, particularly pitchers, caused by repetitive throwing motions. It results in pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow. Treatment includes rest, ice, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery to correct any structural damage.

Osteochondritis Dissecans: Osteochondritis dissecans occurs when a segment of bone and its cartilage covering lose blood supply and begin to separate from the surrounding bone. This condition can lead to joint pain, swelling, and locking. Treatment ranges from rest and physical therapy to surgical procedures like drilling, fixation, or removal of loose fragments.

Ruptured Biceps or Triceps Tendon: A ruptured tendon in the elbow can result from a sudden injury or chronic overuse. Symptoms include a sudden, sharp pain, bruising, and a noticeable bulge in the upper arm. Treatment often requires surgical repair of the tendon, followed by a rehabilitation program to restore strength and flexibility.

Sprains and Strains: Sprains and strains are common injuries involving the ligaments and muscles around the elbow. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the elbow. Treatment usually involves rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and sometimes bracing or splinting. Severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention.

Tendinitis: Tendinitis in the elbow involves inflammation or irritation of the tendons, often due to overuse. Common symptoms include pain and tenderness, especially during movement. Treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Comprehensive Care at GSOS

At GSOS, we emphasize a holistic approach to elbow care, ensuring each patient receives a tailored treatment plan. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and support staff collaborate to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to recovery. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and enhance the quality of life for our patients.

Diagnostic Techniques

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. At GSOS, we utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, including:

• X-rays: To detect fractures and joint abnormalities.
• MRI: To assess soft tissue injuries, including tendons and ligaments.
• CT Scans: For detailed images of bone structures.
• Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate nerve function and detect nerve compression syndromes like cubital tunnel syndrome.