Elbow Injuries and Conditions
From carrying groceries to wielding a tennis racket, our elbows are essential joints in the body, providing the range of motion needed for our daily activities. Unfortunately, elbow injuries and conditions significantly impact our ability to perform everyday tasks, ultimately affecting both personal comfort and professional performance, particularly for those whose jobs require manual dexterity or repetitive arm movements.
Dr. David M. Brown, who is renowned as one of the best orthopedic surgeons in St. Louis, harnesses his extensive expertise to address a wide variety of elbow injuries and conditions. Through precise diagnoses and advanced treatment methods, Dr. Brown focuses on restoring elbow functionality and overall quality of life for all patients, including athletes, manual workers, and anyone in need of expert care.
Common Elbow Conditions & Injuries
Dr. Brown, certified in both plastic and orthopedic surgery, possesses expertise in treating numerous elbow injuries, including common elbow conditions such as:
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the ulnar nerve, commonly known as the "funny bone," experiences chronic pressure or stretching. When compressed or stretched, it can lead to symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the ring and small fingers, pain in the forearm, and weakness in the hand.
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): This painful condition results from inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. This occurs due to repetitive stress and overuse, often seen in activities involving repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements. In contrast, a ligament tear in the lateral aspect of the elbow may occur due to acute trauma or chronic stress, leading to instability and pain.
- Elbow Fractures: Elbow fractures result from falls, impacts, or twisting injuries and may accompany sprains or dislocations. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, deformity, or numbness.
The American Society for Surgery of the Hand has compiled helpful detailed information on these and many other common conditions of the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. PDFs of this information are provided here for informational purposes only and should not be used during a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Common Elbow Injuries and Conditions
Below, we've addressed a few common questions about elbow conditions and injuries. Please contact us for more information.
What is the most common reason for elbow injuries in the workplace?
The most common elbow injuries in the workplace are caused by repetitive strain from performing the same motion repeatedly, such as lifting, typing, or using hand tools. This can lead to conditions like tennis elbow, an overuse injury affecting the elbow's tendons. Additionally, slip and fall accidents, misuse of equipment, and improper lifting techniques can contribute to elbow injuries in occupational settings.
Can elbow injuries lead to long-term complications?
Without proper treatment, elbow injuries can lead to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and conditions like arthritis.
Will I need surgery for an elbow fracture?
Surgery is often required for severe fractures where the bones are displaced, or there are multiple fragments. Dr. Brown will decide based on the type of fracture and its stability.