Elbow pain is a condition often experienced by athletes like golfers, baseball pitchers, tennis players, and boxers, though professionals with physical job responsibilities like plumbers, cooks, painters, autoworkers, and carpenters also experience elbow pain issues. The arm muscles, tendons, bones, and elbow ligaments may all be involved in an elbow disorder, so treatment ultimately depends on the underlying cause.
The doctors at Suncoast Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Sarasota, Florida specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of athletic and degenerative conditions of the musculoskeletal system – like elbow pain – in order to alleviate symptoms and support recovery.
Elbow Pain Treatment
There are many types of elbow disorders that require treatment. Medial Epicondylitis or “Golfer’s Elbow” causes pain along the inside of the elbow, while Lateral Epicondylitis or “Tennis Elbow” affects the tendon on the outside of the elbow. Bursitis is another common condition that harms the small sacs of fluid meant to protect and lubricate the elbow joint. Osteoarthritis is frequently seen when cartilage in the elbow wears down and exposes the bones. Dislocations, fractures, strains, and sprains can also lead to elbow pain, joint instability, swelling, and problems with range of motion.
The doctors at Suncoast Orthopaedic utilize a range of diagnostic tools like CT scans, MRIs, EKGs, X-rays, and physical examinations in order to determine the underlying cause of elbow pain. Treatment is then recommended based on the elbow condition. Many elbow problems respond to non-invasive measures like ice, rest, physical therapy, and bracing. However, if symptoms do not respond after 6 to 12 months, surgery may be the best option.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
Tennis elbow is a very painful condition caused by repetitive motion and overuse of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow become inflamed. The professionals at Suncoast Orthopaedic specialize in tennis elbow treatments that range from non-invasive to surgical. If nonsurgical treatments like steroid injections, shock wave therapy, and physical therapy do not alleviate symptoms, surgical treatment is the best option.
Tennis elbow surgery involves removing the diseased muscle from the elbow while preserving the healthy muscle and attaching it back to the bone. Open surgery, which involves making an incision over the elbow, is the most common approach. Arthroscopic surgery, which repairs the tennis elbow using a much smaller incision and camera tool, is also a viable option.
By working with an experienced doctor at Suncoast Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine in Sarasota, Florida, you can receive the highest quality elbow pain treatment and return to your normal activities and hobbies without pain and discomfort. Call (941) 485-1505 to make your appointment today.