Elbow Disorders Spearfish, SD
Introduction to Elbow Conditions
The elbow is an important joint that provides flexibility and strength for everyday tasks, from lifting and gripping to everyday use and athletic activities. Pain or discomfort in the elbow can stem from injuries, overuse, or age-related conditions, often limiting basic movements.
Dr. Jensen is dedicated to diagnosing and treating elbow disorders in Spearfish, SD, with tailored care, helping to restore mobility, reduce pain, and return you to your active lifestyle.
(605) 569-6000
311 N 27th St, Spearfish, SD 57783
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Elbow Anatomy
The elbow is a complex hinge joint that plays a vital role in arm and forearm movement, connecting the humerus to the radius and ulna. This joint allows for bending, straightening, and rotating the forearm, with stability provided by strong ligaments like the medial and lateral collateral ligaments.
Muscles such as the biceps and triceps power its movements, cartilage cushions the bones, and a synovial membrane lubricates the joint to help smooth motion. While its design enables precise function, the elbow’s intricacy makes it susceptible to injuries and stiffness, particularly from trauma or repetitive strain.
Common Elbow Disorders
Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture
A distal biceps tendon rupture happens when the tendon attaching the biceps to the forearm tears, often from lifting heavy objects or sudden trauma. Symptoms include a noticeable “pop,” bruising, and weakness in forearm supination or elbow flexion.
Surgical repair is typically necessary to restore full function. Preventive measures may include avoiding overloading the arm in vulnerable positions and maintaining balanced muscle strength.
Elbow Arthritis
Elbow arthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage within the joint wears down over time, often due to aging, prior injuries, or repetitive stress. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduced range of motion. Symptoms often worsen with activity and may include difficulty fully straightening or bending the elbow.
Treatment options focus on managing symptoms and improving function, including anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and activity modifications. In severe cases, surgical procedures like joint replacement may be considered to restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, occurs when repetitive wrist extension leads to overuse and inflammation of the extensor tendons on the outer elbow. Symptoms include pain while lifting, gripping, or extending the wrist.
Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications, with surgery rarely required. Prevention involves maintaining proper ergonomics during repetitive tasks and strengthening wrist and forearm muscles.
Loose Bodies
Loose bodies are fragments of bone or cartilage that break free within the elbow joint, typically resulting from trauma, arthritis, or repetitive motion. These free-floating fragments can cause intermittent pain, swelling, and joint locking, making movement difficult.
Arthroscopic surgery is often used to remove these loose bodies and address any associated joint damage. Physical therapy may help to restore strength and range of motion. Early intervention can prevent further complications and improve overall joint function.
Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)
Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, develops from repetitive wrist flexion or gripping, causing overuse and inflammation of the tendons on the inner elbow. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm, along with weakness and stiffness during gripping or lifting motions.
Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications, with surgery considered only for severe cases. Prevention focuses on proper movement during repetitive tasks and strengthening the forearm muscles to reduce strain on the tendons.
Olecranon Fractures
Olecranon fractures occur at the bony tip of the elbow, typically caused by a direct blow or fall. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty straightening the arm. These fractures often require surgical repair, followed by bracing and physical therapy to restore motion and strength. Prevention strategies may include maintaining bone health through proper nutrition and practicing fall prevention techniques.
Treatment and Recovery
Effective treatment of elbow disorders depends on the severity and type of condition. Dr. Jensen emphasizes a personalized approach, combining non-surgical and surgical options for optimal outcomes.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, and physical therapy are often the first line of treatment for many elbow conditions.
- Surgical Treatments: Severe injuries, such as fractures or tendon ruptures, may require surgical repair. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, is used to treat arthritis or remove loose bodies.
- Rehabilitation and Prevention: Recovery plans focus on gradually restoring motion, strength, and flexibility. Preventive strategies include proper warm-ups before activities, ergonomic practices, and strengthening exercises for the forearm and elbow.
Elbow pain can disrupt your daily activities, but with expert care, relief is within reach. Dr. Jensen provides comprehensive treatment for elbow disorders, tailoring care to each patient’s needs to work for towards the best possible outcomes. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or recovering from an injury, Dr. Jensen’s expertise can help you regain function and return to the activities you enjoy.