Elbow pain can interfere with lifting, gripping, throwing, working, and everyday tasks. Symptoms may begin after an injury or develop gradually from repetitive use. Similar symptoms can arise from tendons, ligaments, nerves, bones, or the joint itself.
Common Causes
Our orthopedic team evaluates tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, olecranon bursitis, cubital tunnel syndrome, distal biceps and triceps tendon injuries, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, fractures, and dislocations. Ulnar nerve compression can cause numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers.
Evaluation
The provider reviews work, sports, previous injuries, and movements that reproduce symptoms. The examination assesses motion, stability, strength, tenderness, and nerve function. Same-day X-rays may show fractures, arthritis, bone spurs, loose bodies, or alignment problems. MRI or nerve-conduction testing may be ordered externally when needed.
Treatment
Many elbow conditions improve with activity modification, bracing, physical therapy, and medication when medically appropriate. Selected conditions may benefit from a corticosteroid injection. PRP or Tenex may be considered for certain chronic tendon problems after the diagnosis and alternatives are reviewed.
Surgery may be considered for unstable fractures, complete tendon tears, significant nerve compression, or persistent functional limitation. Available procedures include distal biceps and other tendon repairs, selected nerve decompression, and fracture fixation.
When to Seek Treatment
Schedule an evaluation for persistent pain, worsening stiffness, repeated swelling, grip weakness, or ongoing numbness. Seek urgent treatment for deformity, an open wound, severe swelling, or inability to move the elbow. A pale or cool hand, progressive numbness, or loss of finger movement requires immediate assessment. Redness and warmth with fever may indicate infection.
Locations
Our orthopedic team provides evaluation and treatment at clinics in New Braunfels, Seguin, Cuero, Kenedy, Hallettsville, and Yoakum. Services and provider availability vary by location.
