Elbow Care

The elbow joint is a simple hinge joint, which allows the arm to bend and straighten. The rotational range of the forearm also affects the elbow joint. A series of tendons, ligaments and muscles connecting the elbow and the forearm ensure smooth movement.

Problems with the elbow are often a result of repetitive stressful motion over time, such as hammering or serving a tennis ball. Sometimes, wrist movement can cause elbow pain because the muscles, ligaments and tendons are so interconnected.

Diagnosing and treating elbow pain

A number of conditions or injuries can cause elbow pain. The first step in diagnosing your pain is to see one of our specialists. Your initial appointment will usually be with one of our orthopedic surgeons or sports medicine doctors. The doctor will complete a full evaluation of your symptoms and recent activities. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans may be necessary.

Finding the reason for your pain will help determine your treatment, as well as which providers will be part of your care team. Common elbow problems include:

Elbow joint replacement

If an elbow joint is badly damaged from arthritis, injury or another condition and you have pain or cannot use your arm, then elbow replacement surgery may be an option.

During elbow joint replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the ulna (forearm bone on the pinky finger side) are replaced with artificial components. These components are typically made of ceramic, plastic or metal, and function exactly as your normal joint. Although elbow joint replacement is much less common than other types of joint replacement surgery, such as knee and hip, it can be just as successful in relieving pain and returning people to activities they enjoy.