Elbow pain typically isn’t serious, but it can be extremely bothersome since you use your elbow for such a wide range of motions. The highly trained team of orthopaedic surgeons at Texas Orthopaedic Associates diagnoses and treats elbow pain at their state-of-the-art locations in Dallas and offices in Plano, Weatherford, Keller, and Fort Worth, Texas. If elbow pain interferes with your ability to perform regular activities, don’t hesitate to call your nearest clinic or book an appointment online for fast relief.
ELBOW PAIN Q&A
What Causes Elbow Pain?
Your elbow is a complex joint made of bones, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues. These structures come together to help you extend, flex, and rotate your arms. Damage to any part of your elbow can cause pain that may become worse with certain movements.
Overuse injuries from repetitive motions are the most common cause of elbow pain. Occasionally, wear-and-tear damage from arthritis may affect the elbow, but it’s not as common in this joint as others.
When Should I See an Orthopaedic Surgeon for Elbow Pain?
Most of the time, elbow pain subsides with home treatment methods such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Elbow pain that doesn’t improve with home care may be a sign of an underlying injury that requires professional treatment.
You should seek emergency care right away if you experience sudden, severe elbow pain after a fall or accident or have an obvious elbow deformity such as a protruding bone.
What Are Common Elbow Injuries?
The expert team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, manages the full spectrum of injuries and conditions that affect the elbow joint. Common elbow injuries include:
- Flexor tendinitis
- Ligament injuries
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Elbow dislocations
- Elbow fractures
Without treatment, elbow injuries may become progressively worse and eventually lead to chronic (long-lasting) pain.
What Is The Process for Diagnosing and Treating Elbow Pain?
To diagnose your elbow pain, the team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history. They thoroughly evaluate the strength and range of motion in your elbow and may perform imaging tests, such as an in-office X-ray or MRI.
Then, they develop a personalized treatment plan to relieve your pain and restore function to your elbow. Depending on your unique needs, treatment for elbow pain may include:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Steroid injections
- Immobilization with a brace or splint
If your elbow pain persists despite conservative treatments, the team at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, may recommend surgery. They offer advanced procedures such as minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.
To find relief from your elbow pain, call Texas Orthopaedic Associates, or click online to schedule an appointment at your nearest clinic today.