Elbow pain can sneak up on you, from repetitive movements at work to sports injuries or age-related wear and tear. Whether it’s a nagging ache or a sharp pain that disrupts your daily routine, getting the right diagnosis and treatment is essential. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we specialize in treating a full range of elbow conditions to help you get back to doing what you love, without discomfort.
Diagnosing Elbow Problems
Your elbow is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that all work together to allow for movement and strength. When something goes wrong, it can affect everything from lifting groceries to playing a round of golf.
At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we take the time to understand your symptoms and medical history. Our team may use imaging tools like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasound alongside a thorough physical exam to pinpoint the cause of your elbow pain. From there, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Comprehensive Elbow Care in Charlottesville
Elbow issues can range from mild to severe, and each requires a different approach. Whether you’re dealing with overuse from your job or an acute injury from an accident or sport, we’re here to help. We offer both non-surgical and surgical options for a variety of elbow conditions, including:
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
This common overuse injury causes pain on the outside of the elbow and is often related to repetitive wrist and arm motions. It doesn’t just affect tennis players; anyone who does repetitive hand movements can develop it.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow but affecting the inside of the elbow, golfer’s elbow is caused by repetitive gripping, lifting, or wrist flexing. It can make even simple tasks like turning a doorknob uncomfortable.
Elbow Bursitis
Also known as olecranon bursitis, this condition occurs when the small, fluid-filled sac at the tip of your elbow becomes inflamed. It may result from trauma, infection, or prolonged pressure on the elbow.
Elbow Arthritis
Arthritis in the elbow can develop from wear and tear (osteoarthritis), autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis), or following a previous injury. It may cause stiffness, swelling, and a grinding sensation during movement.
Elbow Fractures
Elbow fractures can happen due to falls, sports injuries, or accidents. These injuries may affect the upper arm bone (humerus), the forearm bones (radius and ulna), or all three. Prompt treatment is essential for proper healing and regaining range of motion.
Elbow Dislocation
When the bones in the elbow joint are forced out of alignment, it can cause intense pain and visible deformity. Dislocations require immediate medical attention and often involve follow-up care to restore stability and strength.
Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)
This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve (the “funny bone” nerve) gets compressed at the elbow. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ring and pinky fingers. It’s especially common in people who rest their elbows on hard surfaces for long periods.
Thrower’s Elbow
Common in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions, like baseball pitchers, thrower’s elbow involves stress to the ligaments, tendons, or growth plates in young athletes. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term damage.
Request an Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing elbow pain or stiffness, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in Charlottesville, VA, today to schedule an evaluation and start your path to recovery.
Our Providers
The providers at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are highly skilled and experienced in their respective specialties.
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Complimentary Movement Screening
Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers complimentary movement screenings to assess your movement, identify imbalances, and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re active, recovering, or want to move better, our expert phsycial therapists provide personalized recommendations for your long-term mobility and wellness.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
“I went to Dr. Nielsen for a second opinion on a dislocated hand. My first surgeon recommended surgery without much consideration. A friend suggested Dr. Nielsen, who spent time reviewing my case and concluded that I only needed rehabilitation. He was right! He's an excellent doctor.”
I called for an appointment and had one in 2 days. As soon as I got in I was greeted and only had to wait a minute for the x-ray technician to come get me. Appointment only took 30 minutes and I left with a complete understanding of what was wrong with my wrist.
The whole team is great from the from the front desk to the operating room. They all went above and beyond to make sure I had an excellent surgery and follow up appointments. Thank you guys for a great experience.
