Injuries to the elbow can be especially troublesome. The elbow is required for many daily tasks, such as getting dressed. Disruption in the functioning of the elbow can impact our ability to drive or perform at work. When you experience pain or mobility issues, your daily life can be significantly impacted.
The elbow is a large and complicated joint. Injury or disease to the bones, ligaments, or muscles that support the elbow can cause debilitating symptoms. Orthopedic physicians can best assist with diagnosis and treatment because of their knowledge of this complicated joint.
There are many causes of orthopedic conditions in the elbow. Through proper diagnosis, orthopedic physicians and surgeons can best treat the root cause of your elbow pain.
Elbow (olecranon) bursitis is inflammation in the part of the elbow called the bursae. Bursae are tiny, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint's bones, tendons, and muscles. The inflammation of these sacs causes elbow bursitis.
Surgery is not always required, and in many cases, you can manage elbow bursitis with conservative treatments. However, in severe cases, an orthopedic surgeon needs to drain the sac or even remove it in rare cases.
Most often, surgery is minimally invasive and performed arthroscopically. It is usually performed at outpatient surgical centers with high success rates. Surgeons make small incisions where a small camera and tiny instruments are used to perform the repair.
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons of the elbow become strained. It is called tennis elbow because it is most often seen in patients who use repetitive wrist and arm motions. It is not exclusive to tennis players and athletes. Many people in certain occupations also can have the condition if their arms are used repetitively for required tasks.
Tennis elbow also is treated with conservative treatments before surgery, such as over the counter Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or Advil, rest and ice, and physical therapy. When these efforts fail, surgery may be considered.
Surgery involves:
The surgery can also be completed arthroscopically at an outpatient facility. In rare cases, the surgeon performs an open surgery.
Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common causes of inflammation and pain in the elbow. It is an autoimmune disorder. The body's immune system attacks itself, breaking down the cartilage and affecting tissue around the joint. It can cause both painful joints and swelling.
There are several conservative treatment options, including medication, physical therapy, and steroid injections. If it has progressed past the point where conventional methods no longer are helping, then surgical options are available.
Surgery is often performed at outpatient surgical centers. Patients have successful results, often restoring mobility and eliminating pain in the joint once healed.
Our surgery center is a partnership between Raleigh Orthopaedic clinic, UNC Rex, and Panther Creek UNC health. Our mission is to be North Carolina's premier orthopedic destination by providing exceptional care that is personalized and cost-effective.
Orthopaedic Surgery Center of Panther Creek has an experienced team of board-certified fellowship-trained surgeons committed to safe results. Our patients can return to their active and healthy life through individualized treatment and education.
Our outpatient surgical center located in Panther Creek is the most modern facility in East North Carolina. Why should you choose us?
Contact us if you require orthopedic care and get started on your journey to healing.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.