Elbow pain can be a debilitating and frustrating condition that can hinder daily activities, from opening doors or picking up a cup of coffee. Fortunately, there are various surgical options for elbow pain treatment that provide relief and allow patients to return to their everyday lifestyle.
Let’s talk about the most common surgical procedures for elbow pain treatment, the potential risks associated with surgery, the overall benefits of these surgeries, and where you can go for elbow pain treatment in Kingsport, TN.
Elbow Pain Treatment — Arthroscopy
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to diagnose elbow pain. This technique uses an arthroscope, consisting of a tiny camera with a slender instrument attached to it. The camera is inserted into the elbow through small incisions, allowing the doctor to get an up-close view of the structures in or around the elbow joint.
The most common use for elbow arthroscopy is to diagnose and treat conditions such as torn tendons or cartilage, damaged ligaments, bone spurs, osteoarthritis, loose bodies in the joint, and even fractures. During this procedure, the orthopedic surgeon will also clean out any debris around the joint and repair any tears or damage found. Repairing tears can increase the range of motion and reduce pain. Elbow arthroscopy may also be used for biopsies or injections into the joint.
The benefits of arthroscopy for elbow pain treatment include minimal scarring compared to traditional surgery, reduced recovery time, less risk of infection due to fewer incisions during surgery, shorter hospital stays, and lower costs overall.
As with all surgeries, there are some general risks. The potential risks associated with elbow arthroscopy may include:
- Infection
- Nerve injury.
- Stiffness due to overstretching of ligaments during surgery.
- Damage to surrounding tissue due to improper placement of instruments.
Other risks include bleeding or reaction to anesthesia. Patients must consider these factors and discuss them with their healthcare provider before undergoing an elbow arthroscopy procedure.
Surgery for Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are injuries common to tennis and golf players that result from repetitive motions. Both injuries are types of tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendons. While the pain may subside with rest and the use of painkillers, the most common treatment for both is surgery.
The surgery for a tennis elbow is called a lateral epicondylectomy. Inan epicondylectomy, your surgeon will remove the damaged portion of the tendon attached to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow. This procedure can be done using a local or general anesthetic. The surgery for a golfer’s elbow is called a medial epicondylectomy. The procedure is similar, but your elbow doctor will cut from the inside of your elbow instead of the outside.
Both surgeries typically use arthroscopic methods to decrease recovery time compared to open methods.
Recovering from Surgeries for Elbow Pain Treatment
Recovering from elbow surgery can be lengthy, but with the right steps, you can ensure your recovery is as smooth and successful as possible.
First, it’s vital to get plenty of rest following your procedure; this will give your body time to heal, so try to avoid any strenuous activities for the first two weeks after surgery. It’s best to keep your arm elevated whenever possible to reduce inflammation and swelling.
After about two weeks, you can begin light physical therapy exercises. These should include gentle stretches and range-of-motion exercises to help improve flexibility and strength in the elbow. Additionally, massage therapy may also be beneficial.
It’s also important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely during your recovery period; they may suggest taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain or discomfort. Additionally, applying cold packs or heat wraps on the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide
Finally, it is important to be patient throughout the recovery process. Although some people experience minimal discomfort during post-surgical care, others experience more intense pain or swelling at different stages in their rehabilitation journey.
Elbow Pain Treatment in Kingsport, TN
If you’re experiencing elbow pain, visit us at Associated Orthopaedics. We have specialists in a variety of orthopedic fields — including elbow pain. The team uses the latest technology and procedures to provide patients with effective and efficient care.
To know more about our comprehensive services, call us today at (423) 245-3161, or request an appointment online.
