Elbow pain can be one of the most significant and debilitating injuries in the arm. Some patients may find that a recent injury, like a fall, results in pain in the elbow. In other cases, long term conditions like osteoarthritis can contribute to elbow pain.
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage. This condition is fairly common in those who have an extended history of injuries in the elbow.
While osteoarthritis is fairly common, the most frequent cause of elbow pain is related to injury. Often, patients suffering elbow injuries will have experienced:
- Injuries sustained during recreational activities or sports
- Injuries in performing responsibilities at work
- Injuries sustained during home improvement projects
- Falls
Additionally, some patients may experience elbow pain simply because of overuse of the joint. When the elbow is consistently overused, the joint and the area surrounding it becomes inflamed, which leads to significant pain in the forearm and the elbow itself. Some of the most common overuse injuries in the elbow include golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, and tendonitis (or “tendinitis”).
The team at Comprehensive Orthopaedic Global in the Virgin Islands is dedicated to personalized elbow pain treatment methods for every patient, helping them to get back to their daily activities as quickly as possible.
When you work with an elbow specialist, you can rest assured you’re being given a thorough and accurate diagnosis and are being led toward the most effective treatment plan for your unique case.
Common Elbow Injuries
As we mentioned, three of the most common elbow injuries that we help treat include golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, and tendonitis.
Golfer’s elbow is a condition that impacts the inside of the elbow. In these cases, pain occurs in the area where the tendons of your forearm muscles connect with the bony bump located on the inside of the elbow. Often, patients with golfer’s elbow also experience pain in their forearm and wrist.
Tennis elbow is quite similar to golfer’s elbow, but this condition occurs on the outside of the elbow. In these cases, the tendons that bend your wrist away from your palm will swell or tear, and the muscles will become sore.
Finally, tendonitis of the elbow impacts the connective tissue between the forearm and the elbow. This area, including the tissue and the muscles, will become inflamed and will result in pain and swelling.
Why Choose Comprehensive Orthopaedic Global?
Both of the elbow surgeons on the team at Comprehensive Orthopaedic Global have undergone years of extensive training specifically aimed at treating elbow issues. Dr. Janet Lewis and Dr. Brian Bacot both have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with a proper assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plan. However, your pain relief does not simply end with a treatment plan or surgery. Our surgeons work together with our physical therapists of COG Restore. Once you enter into physical therapy, you will be guided into rehab in a smooth and seamless transition, so you can start getting back to the daily activities you enjoy most.
To speak with an elbow doctor on our team here at Comprehensive Orthopaedic Global in St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, or one of our Virgin Islands locations, please request an appointment using our online portal or contact us via phone at (340) 779-2663.