Elbow

The elbow is a hinged joint that bends the arm and allows the forearm to rotate. These movements are needed for everyday tasks, like reaching and carrying, as well as athletic motions like throwing and lifting.

Elbow Surgery. Tommy John Surgery. UCL Repair. Orthopedic Surgeon. Speciality Orthopedic Group. Ryves Moore

  • The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) plays a vital role in stabilizing the inside of the elbow joint. UCL injuries are often caused by repetitive stress, especially in athletes who throw, like baseball pitchers. Traumatic events, such as a fall, can also lead to UCL injuries, causing pain on the inner side of the elbow. When the UCL is strained or torn, the elbow may feel painful and unstable, limiting the ability to perform daily activities or participate in sports.

    Treatment for UCL Injuries
    For many patients, non-surgical treatments like rest, bracing, physical therapy, and modifying activities can help reduce pain and promote healing. However, if pain persists and the elbow remains unstable, surgery may be recommended.

    Surgical Repair of UCL Injuries
    UCL repair surgery involves suturing the torn ligament back together. This option is typically for those with partial tears or end avulsions, allowing for quicker recovery and typically done in conjunction with an ‘internal brace’ or heavy suture to bolster the strength of the repaired native ligament. UCL reconstruction surgery is used when the ligament is too damaged to repair. In this procedure, a graft is used to replace the UCL, providing long-term stability and strength.

  • The biceps muscle is a powerful muscle in the arm responsible for bending the elbow. A tear in the tendon that attaches the biceps muscle to the forearm bone can occur due to strain or injury, leading to pain, swelling, and weakness. These symptoms can significantly limit arm function and everyday activities.

    What Causes a Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow?
    While biceps tendon tears at the elbow are relatively rare, they are usually caused by a sudden injury, often from lifting something heavy like furniture, weights, or a box.

    Treatment for Biceps Tendon Tears at the Elbow
    For significant tears, surgery is often recommended to repair the tendon. This approach provides the best chance for patients to regain full arm function and return to their desired activity levels.

    Surgical Repair of Biceps Tendon Tears
    Surgery involves reattaching the torn tendon to the forearm bone using anchors or screws. An incision is made at the front of the arm to access the tendon, allowing the surgeon to restore the biceps muscle's function effectively.

  • Tennis Elbow is a common overuse injury caused by repetitive motions that strain the tendons on the outer side of the elbow. This condition leads to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with activities like gripping or lifting objects. It’s frequently seen in athletes and individuals with repetitive arm movement jobs.

    What Causes Tennis Elbow?
    Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, occurs when overuse of the forearm muscles leads to inflammation or tiny tears in the tendons attached to the outer elbow. Symptoms typically include pain, weakness, and reduced grip strength.

    Treatment for Tennis Elbow
    Treatment often begins with rest, activity modification, and physical therapy to alleviate strain on the elbow. Anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, or corticosteroid injections can help manage symptoms. If these measures don’t provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be explored.

    Surgical Treatment for Tennis Elbow
    Surgery for Tennis Elbow focuses on removing damaged tendon tissue and restoring elbow function. These procedures are often performed using minimally invasive techniques, which can reduce recovery time and allow for a quicker return to normal activities.