Pittsburgh’s Top Elbow Orthopedist Near You
Elbow Injuries
Many athletes rely on their elbows' strength and range of motion in order to succeed at their sport, from tennis players to pitchers. Unfortunately, this is also what makes the elbows particularly prone to injury, especially when playing sports. When your elbow has been injured, you need an experienced team of sports medicine specialists to get you back in the game as soon as possible.
At Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, our team consists of the best orthopedic doctors Pittsburgh has to offer, and we’ve been providing sprains and strains treatment, broken bone treatment, and more for a combined 40 years. We’re committed to offering patients the least invasive, most conservative treatments available, ensuring that your recovery is as quick, effective, and affordable as possible. When you receive care from Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists, you’re not just another patient – you’re a member of our family.
Whether you’re experiencing bone fracture symptoms in your elbow or a soft tissue injury, we’re here to help. If you’re ready to find the elbow pain relief you deserve, don’t wait – schedule an appointment with Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists today.
Minimally-Invasive Fracture Treatment Near You | PA
Customized Treatment for Elbow Pain in Athletes
The elbow is a hinge joint that allows the arm to move in a number of different directions. It is made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the ulna (inner bone), and the radius (outer bone). These bones are connected by a series of ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Elbow pain in athletes can be caused by a number of different factors, including overuse or trauma. Ultimately, these events can lead to a variety of conditions that can worsen if left untreated. Some of the most common elbow conditions we treat at Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists include:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): This condition is caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony lump on the outside of the elbow (the lateral epicondyle). It is a common condition in tennis players, but can also be seen in other athletes who repetitively use their arm in an overhead motion, such as baseball or volleyball players.
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis): This condition is similar to tennis elbow, but involves the tendons on the inside of the elbow (medial epicondyle). It is seen in athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive wrist and forearm motions, such as golf and baseball.
- Olecranon bursitis: This condition is caused by inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) that lies over the bony point of the elbow (olecranon process). It can be caused by repetitive motion or direct trauma to the area.
- Elbow tendinitis: This condition is caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach the muscles to the bones. It can be caused by overuse, repetitive motion, or direct trauma to the area.
- Elbow fractures: Elbow fractures are typically caused by a direct blow to the elbow or a fall onto an outstretched arm. They can range from a small crack in the bone to a complete break.
If you're experiencing chronic elbow pain, or if your pain is interfering with your ability to participate in your favorite activities, it's important to seek medical attention. Our team of sports medicine specialists can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common type of elbow injury?
Overuse injuries are the most common type of elbow injury, particularly in tennis players and baseball pitchers. These injuries occur when the tendons or muscles around the elbow are overloaded and become irritated.
Additionally, arthritis is a common cause of elbow pain in older adults. There are two main types of arthritis that can affect the elbow: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage in the elbow joint breaks down. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes the tissues around the joints to swell and become painful.
When should I see a doctor for my elbow pain?
Elbow pain can vary depending on the type and cause of the injury. Common symptoms of elbow pain include:
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Swelling and tenderness around the elbow
- Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the elbow
- Weakness in the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the hand
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see one of our specialists as soon as possible to receive an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment before your condition worsens.
Do you accept insurance for treating elbow conditions?
Yes! Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists is proud to accept a wide variety of insurances across Western PA, Ohio, and West Virginia for a variety of orthopedic elbow treatments. For patients in the Pittsburgh area, we accept both Highmark and UPMC. View our Insurance page to see our list of providers, and if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our knowledgeable and friendly staff.
How can I get started with the best orthopedic doctors near me?
The team at Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists is passionate about making our care as easy to access as possible for all of our future patients. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment, just use our Online Tool to select a time that works best for you.