What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

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Article featured on UW Medicine

What is cubital tunnel syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome happens when the ulnar nerve, which passes through the cubital tunnel (a tunnel of muscle, ligament, and bone) on the inside of the elbow, becomes inflamed, swollen, and irritated.

Cubital tunnel syndrome causes pain that feels a lot like the pain you feel when you hit the “funny bone” in your elbow. The “funny bone” in the elbow is actually the ulnar nerve, a nerve that crosses the elbow. The ulnar nerve starts in the side of your neck and ends in your fingers.

What causes cubital tunnel syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome may happen when a person bends the elbows often (when pulling, reaching, or lifting), leans on their elbow a lot, or has an injury to the area.

Arthritis, bone spurs, and previous fractures or dislocations of the elbow can also cause cubital tunnel syndrome.

In many cases, the cause is not known.

What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome:

  • Numbness and tingling in the hand or ring and little finger, especially when the elbow is bent
  • Numbness and tingling at night
  • Hand pain
  • Weak grip and clumsiness due to muscle weakness in the affected arm and hand
  • Aching pain on the inside of the elbow

The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome may seem like other health conditions or problems, including golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis). Always see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is cubital tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, diagnostic tests for cubital tunnel syndrome may include:

  • Nerve conduction test. This test measures how fast signals travel down a nerve to find a compression or constriction of the nerve.
  • Electromyogram. This test checks nerve and muscle function and may be used to test the forearm muscles controlled by the ulnar nerve. If the muscles don’t work the way they should, it may be a sign that there is a problem with the ulnar nerve.
  • X-ray. This is done to look at the bones of the elbow and see if you have arthritis or bone spurs in your elbow.

How is cubital tunnel syndrome treated?

The most effective treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome is stopping the activity that is causing the problem. Treatment may include:

  • Resting and stopping any activity that aggravates the condition, such as bending the elbow
  • A splint or foam elbow brace worn at night (to limit movement and reduce irritation)
  • Using an elbow pad (to protect against chronic irritation from hard surfaces)
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen or naproxen)
  • Nerve gliding exercises

If these treatments don’t work, the healthcare provider may talk to you about surgery.

What can I do to prevent cubital tunnel syndrome?

To prevent cubital tunnel syndrome:

  • Keep your arms flexible and strong.
  • Don’t rest on your elbows, especially on a hard surface.
  • Warm up before exercising or using your arms for sports or other repetitive movements.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider if you have:

  • Pain or trouble moving that affects your regular daily activities
  • Pain doesn’t get better or gets worse with treatment
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand

Key points about cubital tunnel syndrome

  • Cubital tunnel syndrome is a problem with the ulnar nerve, which passes through the inside of the elbow. It causes pain that feels a lot like the pain you feel when you hit the “funny bone” in your elbow.
  • Cubital tunnel syndrome may happen when a person frequently bends the elbows, leans on their elbow a lot, or has an injury to the area. Arthritis, bone spurs, and previous fractures or dislocations of the elbow can also cause it. In many cases, the cause is not known.
  • The most common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome are numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand or ring and little finger, especially when the elbow is bent.
  • Cubital tunnel syndrome can be treated with rest and medicines to help with pain and inflammation. Exercises may help, too. In some cases, surgery may be done.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Elbow Dislocation Causes & Treatments

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Article featured on OrthoInfo

When the joint surfaces of the elbow’s three bones are separated, the elbow is dislocated.

Elbow dislocations can be complete or partial, and usually occur after a trauma, such as a fall, motor vehicle collision, or other accident.

  • In a complete dislocation, the joint surfaces are completely separated.
  • In a partial dislocation, the joint surfaces are only partially separated. A partial dislocation is also called a subluxation.

Anatomy

Three bones come together to make up the elbow joint.

  • The humerus  is the bone in the upper arm.
  • Two bones in the forearm, the radius and the ulna, form the lower part of the elbow.

Each of these bones has a very distinct shape.

Ligaments connected to the bones keep the elbow joint together and the bones in proper alignment.

The elbow is both a hinge joint and a ball and socket joint. As muscles contract and relax, two unique motions occur at the elbow.

  • Bending occurs through a hinge joint that allows the elbow to bend and straighten. This is called flexion and extension, respectively.
  • Rotation occurs though a ball and socket joint that allows the hand to be rotated palm up and palm down. This is called supination and pronation, respectively.

Injuries and dislocations to the elbow can affect either of these motions.

Cause

Elbow dislocations are not common.

  • Elbow dislocations typically occur when a person falls onto an outstretched hand. When the hand hits the ground, the force is sent to the elbow. Usually, there is a turning motion in this force. This can drive and rotate the elbow out of its socket. This may occur through a simple fall.
  • Elbow dislocations can also happen:
    • In motor vehicle collisions when a passenger reaches forward to brace for impact.
    • When a wrestler or football player rotates their body with their hand planted on the ground.

Any time force is sent through the arm, the elbow can dislocate.

The elbow is stable because of the combined stabilizing effects of bone surfaces, ligaments, and muscles. When an elbow dislocates, any or all of these structures can be injured to different degrees.

  • A simple dislocation does not have any major bone injury but has ligament injuries.
  • A complex dislocation has bone injuries (fractures) in addition to the ligament injuries found in a simple dislocation.
  • In the most severe dislocations, the blood vessels and nerves that travel across the elbow may be injured. If this happens, there is a risk of losing the arm, meaning the arm must be amputated.

Risk Factors

You are at greater risk for dislocating your elbow if:

  • You are born with greater laxity or looseness in your ligaments
  • You are born with an ulna bone that has a shallow groove for the elbow hinge joint

Symptoms

A complete elbow dislocation is extremely painful and very obvious. The arm will look deformed and may have an odd twist at the elbow.

Signs of a partial dislocation (subluxation) may include:

  • Pain when moving the elbow
  • Bruising on the inside or outside of the elbow where ligaments may have been stretched or torn
  • A sense of the elbow shifting in and out of place spontaneously (suddenly and on its own)

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What is Golfers Elbow?

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Article featured on Montana Bones

Medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow, is a painful condition in which the tendons connecting the forearm to the elbow have become damaged due to injury or overuse. Previously thought to be a form of tendonitis, or inflammation of the tendon, medial epicondylitis is now considered to be a form of tendonosis in which the collagen fibers making up the tendon have deteriorated. Patients with this condition experience pain on the inside of the elbow that may radiate into the forearm. This pain results when the epicondyle puts pressure on the ulnar nerve, a nerve in the forearm. Most often, medial epicondylitis can be treated successfully by simple measures like resting the arm and applying ice. In some cases, however, it requires surgical correction.

While it may be caused by a single injury, medial epicondylitis is usually caused by repetitive gripping, flexing and swinging of the arm. These actions, common in golfers, cause the targeted tendons to stretch and tear. Medial epicondylitis is also frequently diagnosed in baseball pitchers, bowlers, tennis players, swimmers and individuals who do painting, raking or hammering since all of these activities involve similar arm motions. This condition is much more common in men than in women, but much less common in either than tennis elbow.The difference between the two conditions is that tennis elbow occurs on the outside of the elbow while golfer’s elbow occurs on the inside.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS OF MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS

Symptoms of medial epicondylitis may appear suddenly or gradually. These symptoms may include:

  • Pain on the inside of the elbow or forearm
  • Weakness or stiffness in the wrists and hands
  • Tingling or numbness in the hand or fingers, particularly the ring finger or pinkie

The pain of medial epicondylitis may worsen with certain actions, such as swinging the arm, squeezing the hand, turning a doorknob or lifting something heavy, especially when the palm is facing downward.

DIAGNOSIS OF MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS

Medial Epicondylitis is diagnosed through physical examination, the use of X-rays and, on occasion, other diagnostic tests such as MRIs or ultrasound.

TREATMENT OF MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS

There are several simple treatment options for medial epicondylitis. The treatments for medial epicondylitis may include:

  • Resting the arm
  • Wearing a bandage or splint on the wrist or elbow
  • Icing the affected region
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Doing therapeutic exercises
  • Receiving electrical stimulation treatments
  • Taking prescribed corticosteroids orally or by injection
  • Receiving shock wave treatments of the area

The symptoms of medial epicondylitis may resolve in weeks or may persist for months. As the pain subsides, a physical or occupational therapist may suggest different ways of moving the arm to avoid a recurrence of symptoms. If the condition lasts more than 3 to 6 months, becoming chronic, surgery may be considered.

SURGICAL REPAIR OF MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS

There are several types of surgery performed to repair medial epicondylitis. Such surgeries may be performed arthroscopically or as open surgery and are normally done outpatient with a local anesthetic. They usually take between 3 and 4 hours to complete. Most patients may return to a relatively normal routine in about 4 weeks, but may have residual discomfort, weakness or numbness for several months following surgery. Post-surgical physical therapy is usually required. Types of procedures used for surgical repair of medial epicondylitis may include:

Tendon Debridement – in which only the affected tissues within the tendon are removed, or debrided

Medial Epicondyle Release or Epicondylectomy and Ulnar Nerve Release – in which the medial epicondyle is removed, allowing the ulnar nerve to glide freely, releasing it from what is known as ulnar nerve entrapment

Ulnar Nerve Transposition – in which the forearm muscles are cut and temporarily disconnected from the epicondyle so that the ulnar nerve can be moved from behind the elbow to in front of it

RISKS OF SURGICAL REPAIR OF MEDIAL EPICONDYLITIS

While the surgical procedures discussed are considered safe, there are potential risks with any surgery which may include:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Adverse reactions to anesthesia or medications
  • Post-surgical infection
  • Breathing problems

Risks of the specific surgeries discussed may include a condition known as chronic regional pain syndrome, or CRPS. This complication, which is rare, may cause ongoing swelling, pain, skin discoloration and stiffness.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Give praise to the elbow: A bending, twisting marvel

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What are Hand, Wrist or Elbow Dislocations?

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Article featured on Mercy Health

What are hand, wrist or elbow dislocations?

Hand dislocations occur when one of the eight carpal bones (bones located at the base of the hand) fall out of the joint to cause a hand dislocation. The capitate (largest bone in the hand) or lunate bones are the bones that most frequently dislocate.

Wrist dislocations occur when one of the eight bones of the wrist fall out of socket due to a fall.

Elbow dislocations occur when the joints of the elbows somehow separate. In a partial elbow dislocation, the joint surfaces are not completely separated (also known as subluxation), while in a complete dislocation, the joint surfaces are completely dislocated.

Causes of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations

  • Hand dislocations typically occur when direct, intense force is applied to the wrist and the hand is bent backward.
  • High impact sports such as basketball and football are common causes of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations – football and basketball players can dislocate finger joints when striking the ball, the ground or another player.
  • A hard blow to the joint, for example in a car accident, could cause a hand, wrist or elbow dislocation.

Risk factors of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations

Risk factors of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations are:

  • Participating in high impact, extreme sporting activities, such as football and hockey can put people at higher risk for a hand, wrist or elbow dislocation
  • Sports where falls are common, such as volleyball, gymnastics and downhill skiing put people at a higher risk of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations
  • Some people are born with ligaments and joints that are more prone to injury
  • Patients who are more susceptible to falls (such as the elderly) are at a higher risk for hand, wrist or elbow dislocations

Symptoms of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations

Symptoms of hand, wrist or elbow dislocations include:

  • Visible deformities in the hand, wrist or elbow after trauma
  • Inability to move your hand, wrist or elbow
  • Severe pain in the affected area
  • Swelling in the hands, wrists or elbow
  • Misshaped appearance of the hand, wrist or elbow
  • Numbness

Diagnosis of a hand, wrist or elbow dislocation

If you suspect you have a hand, wrist or elbow dislocation, visit the ER right away. It is crucial to treat a hand, wrist or elbow dislocation right away to avoid developing arthritis or death of bone tissue. When possible, ice the joint and keep it immobile while waiting to see the physician.

Hand, wrist or elbow dislocations are diagnosed in a physical exam and with an x-ray, MRI or CT scan to evaluate the extent of the injury and determine the best course of treatment.

Treatments for hand, wrist or elbow dislocations

Wrist dislocations typically require surgery by a hand or wrist orthopedic surgeon.

The hand surgeon will place the bones back into the correct location as well as repair the ligaments and soft tissue surrounding the injury during the procedure.

After the procedure, the wrist will be immobilized in a cast for eight weeks to ensure proper healing.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Quick Fixes for Aching Elbows

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The elbow is a funny joint. It is home to your funny bone—your ulnar nerve—which hurts if it’s hit a certain way. And the elbow is often overlooked as an important joint to help us maintain our independence. Many older adults may not think much about the elbow, because it’s not a weight-bearing joint and because it doesn’t often develop arthritis or require joint replacement in the older adult population. But elbow pain can keep you from getting dressed, cooking dinner, and anything else that requires the use of your arm. Taking care of this joint helps ensure that you can care for yourself.

Causes of elbow pain

The elbow is made up of bones, muscles, ligaments (which connect bones), and tendons (which connect muscles to bone). The most common cause of elbow pain is inflammation of one or both of the elbow’s two tendons. This is called tendinitis, and it is often the result of overuse. “Repetitive movements from everyday work, household chores, golf, or tennis can affect the muscles above and below the elbow and cause tendinitis,” says Norby. Tendinitis pain travels from the elbow to the upper arm or to the lower arm.

Other causes of elbow pain are fractures from falling onto an outstretched arm; arthritis; sprains, which stretch or tear elbow ligaments; and bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled joint cushions called bursae.

Diagnosis and fixes

If you are unable to make your arm completely straight after an injury, Contact your doctor to check for a possible fracture. You’ll likely undergo an x-ray.

If your elbow is just sore, you should consider these fixes before contacting your doctor for help.

  • Rest. Stop overuse of the muscle group you suspect is behind your elbow pain. For example, if you have a hobby or project that requires repetitive wrist flexing or extending, you may be overusing the muscles and tendons of the forearm that connect to the elbow.
  • Heat therapy. Heat can bring blood flow and nutrients to the elbow, which can encourage healing. Protect your skin with a thin cloth, then place a heating pad or hot pack around your elbow.
  • Stretching. Stretching out the muscles of the forearm can offer some relief. Simply straighten your elbow out with the palm of your hand facing the floor, and gently pull your fingers toward the underside of your wrist. You should feel a stretch along the back of your forearm. Hold it for 30 seconds. Then flip your forearm over, with your palm facing the ceiling, and push your fingers toward the floor. Hold for 30 seconds.
  • Bracing. Constantly wearing a brace keeps the muscles still, allowing them time to heal. You can buy various arm braces at most drugstores. Look for one that immobilizes the muscles that may be causing your pain, such as a wrist or forearm brace if you often flex your wrist.

Prevention

Once your elbow has healed, talk to your doctor about physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint. You’ll likely perform exercises such as biceps curls that focus on the muscles in your upper arm. Strengthen your muscles every other day, so they have time to repair and replenish energy stores. You can stretch them daily.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Elbow Pain? Here’s What Might Be Causing It

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Article featured on WebMD

Your elbow lets you throw, lift, swing, and hug, for starters. You can do all this because it’s not a simple joint. And that means there are a lot of ways things can go wrong. Your elbow’s a joint formed where three bones come together — your upper arm bone, called the humerus, and the ulna and the radius, the two bones that make up your forearm. Each bone has cartilage on the end, which helps them slide against each other and absorb shocks. They’re lashed into place with tough tissues called ligaments. And your tendons connect your bones to muscles to allow you to move your arm in different ways. If anything happens to any of these parts, not to mention the nerves and blood vessels around them, it can cause you pain. Here are some of the different ways your elbow can hurt:

One-time Injuries

Some injuries, hopefully, are one-off events, like when you fall or get hit hard while playing a sport.

  • Dislocated elbow. When one of the bones that forms the elbow gets knocked out of place, you have a dislocated elbow. One of the more common causes is when you put your hand out to catch yourself during a fall. It can also happen to toddlers when you swing them by their forearms — that’s called nursemaid’s elbow. If you think you or your child has a dislocated elbow, call your doctor right away.
  • Fractured elbow: If one of your arm bones breaks at the elbow, you have a fracture. Usually, this happens with a sudden blow, as you might get in a contact sport or a car accident. And don’t be fooled if you can still move your elbow afterward. If you’re in pain and it doesn’t look right, it could be broken. You’ll need medical attention.
  • Strains and sprains: File these under, “Oof, I think I pushed it a little too far.” When muscles get stretched or torn, it’s called a strain. When it’s ligaments, it’s a sprain.
You can get a strain when you put too much pressure on your elbow muscles, like when you lift heavy objects or overdo it with sports. Elbow sprains are common in athletes who throw, use racquets, or play contact sports. Both are treated with rest, ice and — once the pain is gone — stretching and strength exercises.

Wear-and-Tear Injuries

Other injuries occur over time, as you repeat certain actions and put wear and tear on your elbow. You can injure yourself playing sports or in any number of work settings, from a factory to an office.

  • Bursitis: Often caused by repeating the same motion over and over, you can also get bursitis from an accident or infection. Bursa are small sacs with fluid in them. You have them in your joints to help cushion your bones, tendons, and muscles. They also help skin slide over bone. But they can get swollen and cause you pain. Often, bursitis is simply treated with pain medicine and starts to get better within a few weeks.
  • Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow: These are both types of tendinopathy or tendinosis, which means you have damage in the tendons around your elbow from overuse. Despite the names, the injuries aren’t limited to golfers or tennis players. You’re just more likely to get them based on the arm motions used in those sports. The main difference between the two is that tennis elbow affects the outside of your elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inside.
  • Trapped nerves: You might be familiar with carpal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve that passes through your wrist gets squeezed and causes some wrist and arm issues. You can have similar problems in your elbow.
  • If you have radial tunnel syndrome, you have a similar issue with the radial nerve as it passes through the radial tunnel near the outside of your elbow. You may have burning or numbness on your outside forearm and elbow.
  • Stress fractures: With a stress fracture, you have a small crack in one of your arm bones, usually from overuse. They’re more common in the lower legs and feet, but athletes who throw a lot, such as baseball pitchers, can get them in the elbow, too. The pain is usually worse when throwing.

Diseases

Several diseases can also cause elbow pain, though it’s usually not the main symptom.

  • Arthritis: Many types of arthritis can affect your elbow, but the main ones are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
    • Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the elbow. When you have it, your immune system attacks your body’s healthy tissue and causes swelling in your joints. You get osteoarthritis when your elbow cartilage breaks down over time, which means the bones rub together and cause pain and stiffness.
  • Osteochondritis dissecans: Children and teenagers mostly get this condition, where a piece of bone near the elbow dies. The bone piece and some cartilage then break off, which causes pain during physical activity. It’s more common in the knees, but can happen in the elbow, as well.
  • Gout: This is actually a type of arthritis. Uric acid, normally a waste product to be sent out of your body, builds up as crystals in your tissues. If the buildup happens in your elbow, it can be very painful.
  • Lupus: This is another illness where your immune system attacks healthy parts of your body, including your joints and organs. It more commonly affects your hands and feet, but it can cause problems in your elbow.
  • Lyme disease: Carried by ticks, Lyme disease can cause serious problems if not treated early. You may have issues with your nervous system and pain in your joints, like your elbow.

When to Call Your Doctor

If you think you’ve fractured or dislocated your elbow — it hurts and doesn’t look right — go to the emergency room.
Call your doctor if you have:

  • Elbow pain that doesn’t go away with rest and ice, or pain that doesn’t go away even when you’re not using your arm
  • Intense pain, swelling, and bruising around your elbow
  • Pain, swelling, or redness that gets worse, especially if you have a fever, too
  • Problems using your elbow, such as difficulty bending your arm

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

14 Common Causes of Elbow Pain

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Article featured on WebMD.

Your elbow lets you throw, lift, swing, and hug, for starters. You can do all this because it’s not a simple joint. And that means there are a lot of ways things can go wrong.

Your elbow’s a joint formed where three bones come together — your upper arm bone, called the humerus, and the ulna and the radius, the two bones that make up your forearm.

Each bone has cartilage on the end, which helps them slide against each other and absorb shocks. They’re lashed into place with tough tissues called ligaments. And your tendons connect your bones to muscles to allow you to move your arm in different ways.

If anything happens to any of these parts, not to mention the nerves and blood vessels around them, it can cause you pain.

Here are some of the different ways your elbow can hurt:

One-time Injuries

Some injuries, hopefully, are one-off events, like when you fall or get hit hard while playing a sport.

  • Dislocated elbow: When one of the bones that forms the elbow gets knocked out of place, you have a dislocated elbow. One of the more common causes is when you put your hand out to catch yourself during a fall. It can also happen to toddlers when you swing them by their forearms — that’s called nursemaid’s elbow. If you think you or your child has a dislocated elbow, call your doctor right away.
  • Fractured elbow: If one of your arm bones breaks at the elbow, you have a fracture. Usually, this happens with a sudden blow, as you might get in a contact sport or a car accident. And don’t be fooled if you can still move your elbow afterward. If you’re in pain and it doesn’t look right, it could be broken. You’ll need medical attention.
  • Strains and sprains: File these under, “Oof, I think I pushed it a little too far.” When muscles get stretched or torn, it’s called a strain. When it’s ligaments, it’s a sprain.

You can get a strain when you put too much pressure on your elbow muscles, like when you lift heavy objects or overdo it with sports.

Elbow sprains are common in athletes who throw, use racquets, or play contact sports.

Both are treated with rest, ice and — once the pain is gone — stretching and strength exercises.

Wear-and-Tear Injuries

Other injuries occur over time, as you repeat certain actions and put wear and tear on your elbow. You can injure yourself playing sports or in any number of work settings, from a factory to an office.

  • Bursitis: Often caused by repeating the same motion over and over, you can also get bursitis from an accident or infection. Bursa are small sacs with fluid in them. You have them in your joints to help cushion your bones, tendons, and muscles. They also help skin slide over bone. But they can get swollen and cause you pain. Often, bursitis is simply treated with pain medicine and starts to get better within a few weeks.
  • Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow: These are both types of tendinopathy or tendinosis, which means you have damage in the tendons around your elbow from overuse. Despite the names, the injuries aren’t limited to golfers or tennis players. You’re just more likely to get them based on the arm motions used in those sports. The main difference between the two is that tennis elbow affects the outside of your elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inside.
  • Trapped nerves: You might be familiar with carpal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve that passes through your wrist gets squeezed and causes some wrist and arm issues. You can have similar problems in your elbow.
  • If you have cubital tunnel syndrome, one of the main nerves in your arm (the ulnar nerve) gets squeezed as it runs along the inside of your elbow and passes through tissue called the cubital tunnel. You may have burning or numbness in your hand, arm, and fingers.
  • If you have radial tunnel syndrome, you have a similar issue with the radial nerve as it passes through the radial tunnel near the outside of your elbow. You may have burning or numbness on your outside forearm and elbow.
  • Stress fractures: With a stress fracture, you have a small crack in one of your arm bones, usually from overuse. They’re more common in the lower legs and feet, but athletes who throw a lot, such as baseball pitchers, can get them in the elbow, too. The pain is usually worse when throwing.

Diseases

Several diseases can also cause elbow pain, though it’s usually not the main symptom.

  • Arthritis: Many types of arthritis can affect your elbow, but the main ones are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
    • Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the elbow. When you have it, your immune system attacks your body’s healthy tissue and causes swelling in your joints. You get osteoarthritis when your elbow cartilage breaks down over time, which means the bones rub together and cause pain and stiffness.
    • Osteochondritis dissecans: Children and teenagers mostly get this condition, where a piece of bone near the elbow dies. The bone piece and some cartilage then break off, which causes pain during physical activity. It’s more common in the knees, but can happen in the elbow, as well.
  • Gout: This is actually a type of arthritis. Uric acid, normally a waste product to be sent out of your body, builds up as crystals in your tissues. If the buildup happens in your elbow, it can be very painful.
  • Lupus: This is another illness where your immune system attacks healthy parts of your body, including your joints and organs. It more commonly affects your hands and feet, but it can cause problems in your elbow.
  • Lyme disease: Carried by ticks, Lyme disease can cause serious problems if not treated early. You may have issues with your nervous system and pain in your joints, like your elbow.

When to Call Your Doctor

If you think you’ve fractured or dislocated your elbow — it hurts and doesn’t look right — go to the emergency room.

Call your doctor if you have:

  • Elbow pain that doesn’t go away with rest and ice, or pain that doesn’t go away even when you’re not using your arm
  • Intense pain, swelling, and bruising around your elbow
  • Pain, swelling, or redness that gets worse, especially if you have a fever, too
  • Problems using your elbow, such as difficulty bending your arm

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What a Dislocated Elbow Means

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Article featured on the Cleveland Clinic.
The elbow is composed of three bones. A dislocation happens when any of these bones become separated or knocked out of place. If you think you have dislocated your elbow, you should get immediate medical help.

What is a dislocated elbow?

A dislocated elbow occurs when any of the three bones in the elbow joint become separated or knocked out of their normal positions.
Dislocation can be very painful, causing the elbow to become unstable and sometimes unable to move. Dislocation damages the ligaments of the elbow and can also damage the surrounding muscles, nerves and tendons (tissues that connect the bones at a joint).
You should seek immediate medical treatment if you think you have an elbow dislocation. Treatment reduces the risk of irreversible damage.

How common is a dislocated elbow?

The incidence of the injury has been estimated at 2.9 events per 100,000 people over the age of 16. In children, dislocations can happen when someone yanks on the child’s arm.

SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

What causes a dislocated elbow?

There can be various causes of a dislocated elbow.

  • Most elbow dislocations occur when people try to stop a fall with their outstretched hand.
  • Car accidents can cause dislocated elbows when people reach out to brace themselves against impact.
  • Sports injuries can cause dislocations.
  • Overuse can also be a cause.
  • In some cases, a joint disorder such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome causes dislocations. Ehlers-Danlos makes joints unusually loose and flexible.

What are the signs and symptoms of a dislocated elbow?

A dislocated elbow can be partial or complete. A complete elbow dislocation involves a total separation and is called a luxation. When the elbow joint is partially dislocated, it is called a subluxation.
Doctors also classify elbow dislocations according to the extent of the damage and where it occurs. The 3 types include:

  • Simple: No major injury to the bone
  • Complex: Severe injuries to the bone and ligament
  • Severe: Damage to the nerves and blood vessels around the elbow

The signs and symptoms of a dislocated elbow vary depending on the severity of the injury and the bones involved. They include:

  • Bruising
  • Deformed-looking arm (bone looks out of place)
  • Weakness in the joint
  • Loss of ability to move the elbow
  • Pain
  • Swelling

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS

How is dislocated elbow diagnosed?

A doctor diagnoses a dislocated elbow by looking at the arm and moving the joint.
In many cases, doctors use an imaging test called an X-ray to see if the bone is injured. Occasionally, doctors use tests called MRI or CT scans to look for damage to the surrounding muscles and tendons.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT

How is a dislocated elbow condition managed or treated?

Some dislocated elbows return to their usual position on their own. More severe cases need a doctor to return the bones to their proper position.
Treatment for a dislocated elbow varies according to the severity of the injury. Steps you can take to reduce pain while you wait to see a doctor include:

  • Rest
  • Apply ice
  • Keep the elbow elevated

Treatments for an elbow dislocation include:

  • Manipulation: A doctor returns the bones to their normal positions, called a joint reduction.
  • Medication: Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medicine to reduce pain.
  • Rest: Once the joint is back in place, you may need to keep it immobile and protect it. Using a sling can help the elbow joint heal.
  • Physical therapy: You may need to do exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the elbow to help support it after it heals.
  • Surgery: You may need surgery if:
    • Your doctor is unable to return the bones to their proper positions through manipulation.
    • Dislocation damaged nerves or blood vessels in the elbow.
    • Torn tendons or muscles need repair.

PREVENTION

Can dislocated elbow be prevented?

Caution can help reduce your risk of a dislocated elbow. Be careful on slippery surfaces and stairs to avoid falls. Avoid overtraining in sports to avoid overuse injuries.

What are the risk factors for dislocated elbow?

People at higher risk for a dislocated elbow include those who:

  • Are over age 65 (because they are more prone to falls)
  • Overtrain in sports, especially activities involving throwing
  • Have inherited joint disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

OUTLOOK/PROGNOSIS

What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with dislocated elbow?

Recovery times vary according to the severity of the elbow dislocation. Many dislocated elbows do not cause any further problems once they heal. They usually feel better as soon as a doctor puts the joint back in place.

LIVING WITH

When should I call the doctor?

Contact your doctor if you have the symptoms of a dislocated elbow. Do not try to push a dislocated elbow back into place yourself. This effort could damage the surrounding tissue and tendons and lead to complications. If you have a dislocated elbow, let your doctor know if you think you are not healing correctly or continue to have problems.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

If you have a dislocated elbow, you may want to ask your doctor:

  • How serious is the dislocation?
  • Will I need surgery or other treatment?
  • What signs of complications should I look out for?
  • Do I need a follow-up visit, and if so, when?

When can I go back to my regular activities?

Healing time for a dislocated elbow varies depending on the severity of the injury. Most people with a dislocated elbow can return to their usual activities once a doctor has returned the joint to its normal position.
A sling can help protect the elbow joint so you can return to your usual activities while the joint heals. Your doctor will let you know when you can resume more physical activities such as sports or lifting heavy objects.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Potential Causes of Elbow and Arm Pain

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Article features on News Medical Life Sciences
There are various possible causes of elbow pain or arm pain. These include injury to the arm, compression of the nerves that serve the arm, arthritis, and various other health conditions.
elbow pain

Injury

A sprain can occur when a movement of the arm has caused damage to the connective tissues in the area. This can present as arm or elbow pain. This damage is usually acute and temporary, and the pain will improve with time as the tissues are repaired.
A fracture or dislocation of a bone in the arm or elbow may also be responsible for causing elbow pain. Most patients are able to pinpoint the cause of the pain or trace it to a certain incident that caused the damage.
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) can also cause elbow pain. It is due to the performance of repetitive tasks that involve movements of the elbows. As such, it commonly affects office workers who use computers frequently throughout the day, and other individuals whose job comprises repetitive manual work.
Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow can cause elbow pain, and occurs due to the overuse of the muscles and tendons in the joint. It is so named because it is most common in individuals who plan tennis or golf, due to the arm movements that are involved in these sports.

Nerve compression

The joints and bones of an individual show wear and tear as part of the natural aging process. This can lead to the squashing or trapping of nerves, which in turn can cause pain in various areas of the body. In this case, the nerves around the elbow may be pinched, causing pain. Other sensations, such as numbness or tingling, may also be experienced.
cubital tunnel syndrome
Cervical spondylosis is a condition that involves compression of the spinal nerves in the neck region. Some of these nerves are responsible for the sensory messages of pain carried to and from the arm. Damage to them can hence lead to arm pain. Sometimes the compressed nerve may be located in the arm.
A cervical rib is a musculoskeletal abnormality that involves the presence of an additional rib above the normal first rib. This extra bone can interfere with the free passage of nerves in the region, which may lead to elbow pain.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that affects the elbow joint can lead to stiffness, pain and inflammation of the elbow and arm.
Osteoarthritis involves damage to the cartilage at the ends of the bones that help to prevent friction between the bones that take part in the joint, often due to overuse of or injury to the joint. This leads to rubbing of the bones against each other, which provokes the symptoms of arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis involves an autoimmune response of the body that leads to damage to the synovial membrane that lines the joints in the body, including the elbow. In this condition, both elbows are usually affected.

Other health conditions that cause elbow pain

Angina is a health condition that involves reduced blood flow to the heart muscles as a result of narrowing of the blood vessels. Individuals with angina may experience a dull, throbbing pain in the chest, neck, and left arm as a symptom of the condition, particularly during physical activity or when they undergo stress.
Gout is another health condition characterized by the formation of sharp crystals at various locations around the body, including inside the elbow joints. This is due to a high concentration of uric acid in the body. This can cause severe elbow pain during a gout attack.
Olecranon bursitis is the build up of fluid inside the fold of smooth synovial membrane that cushions the olecranon (the bony tip of the elbow joint). This can cause pain and inflammation.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.
New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.
Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.
If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.