Specialized Elbow Treatment & Care in the Greater Philadelphia Area

Your elbow is one of the most critical and active joints in the human body. If an injury or condition is limiting the use of your elbow, turn to Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center. We treat a full range of elbow injuries and conditions.

Elbow pain can significantly impact daily activities, from lifting your child to playing sports or even performing simple household tasks. Without proper treatment, the condition will only worsen over time, limiting mobility and reducing overall quality of life. Fortunately, the dedicated and compassionate team at Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center is just a call away. We diagnose and treat a range of elbow-related conditions, including tendonitis, fractures, arthritis, dislocations, infections, and nerve compression.

Our advanced approach to elbow pain treatment includes conservative therapies such as physical therapy and injections, as well as cutting-edge surgical procedures when necessary. If you are struggling with persistent pain, our team is here to help restore your elbow’s functionality and relieve any discomfort you may be feeling.

Common Causes of Elbow Pain & Reduced Mobility

Many things can cause elbow pain and reduce mobility — from overuse injuries to degenerative conditions and accidents. The good news is that our elbow orthopedic specialists in the Greater Philadelphia area offer expert surgical and non-surgical care and can help you live a pain-free life once again.

Some of the most common elbow conditions we treat include:

  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): This condition is caused by repetitive motions that strain the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It often affects individuals who perform the same task or motion over and over, such as athletes and manual laborers.
  • Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow but affecting the inner part of the elbow, this condition results from overuse of the wrist and forearm muscles.
  • Elbow Fractures: A direct blow or fall on the elbow can lead to a fracture, which may require immobilization or surgery, depending on the severity of the injury.
  • Arthritis: Over time, the cartilage that cushions the elbow joint can wear down, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Thankfully, our elbow treatment plans can target the discomfort and symptoms associated with an array of arthritis types.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the joint, can cause swelling and pain in the elbow.
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve compression in the elbow can lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. If these symptoms are affecting your life, reach out to our elbow orthopedic specialists for a consultation.
  • Tendinitis: This condition refers to the inflammation of the tendons in the elbow due to repetitive strain or overuse. It often causes pain and stiffness in the elbow.
  • Dislocation: A dislocation of the elbow involves the bones in the joint moving out of place due to trauma or sudden impact. Dislocations lead to severe pain and loss of function. Our orthopedic specialists can help you regain mobility in your elbow after a dislocation.
  • Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease causes the breakdown of cartilage in the elbow, resulting in pain and limited movement.
  • Ligament Sprains and Tears: Damage to the ligaments supporting the elbow joint can result from sudden twisting movements or excessive force. Regardless of the cause, our team can craft a customized plan for elbow injury treatment to help you get back to life as usual.

We can also diagnose and treat:

  • Elbow Contusions
  • Elbow Instability
  • Medial Collateral Ligament Sprains / Strains / Tears
  • Radial Tunnel Syndrome
  • Radial Nerve Dysfunction
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Tendon Injuries
  • Triceps Tendon Inflammation / Rupture
  • Ulnar Collateral Ligament Sprains / Strains / Tears

In-Depth Diagnosis of Elbow Conditions

Proper diagnosis is the first step in recovery. At the Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, we utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to evaluate elbow injuries and conditions with precision. During an initial consultation, our specialists conduct a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, strength, and signs of inflammation or deformity.

We may then use advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds to identify structural damage, fractures, or soft tissue injuries that may be contributing to pain. In some cases, nerve conduction studies may be performed to diagnose conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome. By taking a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, our elbow orthopedic specialists ensure that each patient receives the most accurate assessment, leading to a tailored treatment plan that meets their specific needs.

Personalized & Effective Elbow Treatment in Philadelphia

Treating elbow pain requires a customized approach based on the severity and cause of the condition. This is why our physicians offer a variety of options, including non-surgical and surgical interventions.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Elbows

Many elbow conditions can be effectively managed with conservative treatments. Our specialists may recommend:

  • Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists can provide strengthening and flexibility exercises to help restore movement and prevent future injuries in your elbow and even the rest of your arm and shoulder.
  • Bracing & Splinting: Immobilization can reduce strain on the elbow, allowing it to heal properly.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications may help manage pain and swelling.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Targeted injections can provide short-term relief from inflammation and severe pain.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This advanced treatment option promotes healing by using the body’s natural growth factors. This is a common treatment option for tennis and golfer’s elbow.

Surgical Treatment for Elbows

When conservative methods are not effective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Our expert surgeons specialize in minimally invasive and traditional procedures, such as:

  • Arthroscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive technique allows for the removal of damaged tissue and the repair of tendons and ligaments.
  • Elbow Joint Replacement: For patients with severe arthritis, joint replacement can restore function and relieve chronic pain.
  • Fracture Repair Surgery: We can perform the realignment and fixation of broken bones using plates, screws, or pins.
  • Nerve Decompression Surgery: These procedures are designed to relieve pressure on nerves, improving sensation and movement.

The Role of Rehabilitation in Elbow Care

Rehabilitation is key to regaining strength, flexibility, and full range of motion after an elbow injury or surgery. This is why we have a team of skilled physical therapists in each of our locations who can design rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs. We may recommend a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises, massages, functional training, and hot and cold therapy to alleviate discomfort and enhance healing.

Suffering From Elbow Pain? Call Our Team to Book a Consultation

You don’t have to live with persistent pain or turn away from your favorite sports and hobbies. All you have to do to regain the functionality you need and the long-term relief you crave is to call the Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center. We offer effective elbow pain treatment in Philadelphia and can provide accurate diagnoses, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today and start your journey to recovery!

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