Elbow Conditions
Committed to Restoring your Function
Elbow Troubling you?
Delaying Treatment can result in Permanent Nerve Damage and loss of Function of your Arm.
Elbow Pain?
Is it Acute or Chronic?
Acute means it happened Suddenly and Chronic means it Progressed over time.
Acute orthopaedic condition of the elbow
Fractured elbow. A break in 1 or more bones that make up the in the elbow.
Dislocated elbow. The bones of the Forearm and Upper arm move out of place, causing Pain and Loss of function.
Sprained elbow. An injury to the soft tissue of the elbow.
Osteoarthritis. This is a Degenerative joint disease that causes Pain and Stiffness in the elbow due to the breakdown of Cartilage in the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis. This is an Autoimmune disease that causes Inflammation and Progressive destruction of the elbow joint.
Tendinosis. This is a Degenerative condition of the Tendons in the elbow, caused by Repetitive use and Overuse.
Elbow bursitis. This is a Chronic inflammation of the Bursa (a fluid-filled sac) near the elbow joint, generally caused by Repetitive use or Injury.
Lateral Epicondylitis also known as Tennis elbow. This is a Chronic condition caused by Repetitive use, resulting in inflammation of the tendons on the Outer part of the elbow.
Medial Epicondylitis also known as Golfer’s Elbow. This is a Chronic condition caused by Repetitive use, resulting in inflammation of the tendons on the Inner part of the elbow.
Elbow Instability. The elbow joint is Unstable.
Elbow Contracture. This is a result of the Muscles and Tendons in the elbow becoming Stiff, and resulting in a decreased the Range of motion.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. This is a Chronic condition caused by Compression of the Ulnar Nerve at the elbow, resulting in Numbness and Tingling in the hand.
Osteophyte Formation. In this condition, bony growths form around the elbow joint, resulting in pain and reduced range of motion.
Common Symptoms of Chronic Elbow Conditions
Pain. A Sharp, Dull, or Burning sensation in the elbow.
Swelling. An increase in the size of the elbow joint especially in Tennis and Golfer’s elbow.
Stiffness. Difficulty in moving the joint, especially after periods of inactivity.
Weakness. Muscle Weakness can result in difficulty in using the arm.
Numbness. A Loss of Sensation in the arm, hand, or fingers.
Tingling. A Prickling sensation in the arm, hand, or fingers.
Instability. A feeling that the elbow is “giving way”.
Locking. The inability to fully Extend or Bend the elbow, often as a result of a piece of Cartilage becoming Lodged in the joint.
Grinding. A grinding sensation in the elbow joint, often is indicative of Osteoarthritis.
Redness. A noticeable redness or warmth.
Decreased range of motion.
In order to assess Shoulder Pathology properly. A detailed History, Examination and Imaging are required. Generally a X-ray, MRI or Ultrasound are needed to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment
These symptoms can be Progressive and Worsen over time if the underlying condition is not treated. It is important to see Dr NM van der Berg, an Orthopaedic Surgeon, if you experience any of these symptoms. He will create a Customized Treatment Plan based on your Specific Needs as his patient. Treatment options vary depending on the Cause and the Severity of the condition. It can range from a Steroid Injection into the joint, Oral Medication and Physiotherapy, or Surgery for severe cases.
It is important to note that Dr NM van der Berg, Orthopaedic Surgeon, will treat with Non-Surgical Procedures and will only perform Surgery if deemed necessary.
Reduction in pain. Early treatment may prevent the progression of the condition.
Improved function. Early treatment may help preserve the normal functioning of the elbow joint. Delaying treatment can result in permanent nerve damage.
Reduced risk of complications.
Early treatment may prevent surgery, maybe conservative treatment such as physiotherapy and medication is all that’s needed.
Faster recovery, if treated early before complications arise.
- Reduced cost because of decreased risk of complications.
It is important to see Dr NM van der Berg, an Orthopaedic Surgeon, if you are experiencing Persistent or Severe pain in the elbow, as this may indicate a more Serious underlying condition that requires prompt Evaluation and Treatment. These conditions can worsen over time as a result of Repeated stress, Overuse, or Injury and can lead to Long-Term pain, Instability, and Limited Mobility if left untreated. Don’t compromise in the quality of your life.
Address
Life Empangeni Private Hospital, Doctors Block A, Suite 6, Corner of Biyela & Ukula Street, Empangeni, 3880
Covers Richards Bay, Empangeni & Surrounding Areas
