The elbow is a complex joint that allows you to perform pushing and pulling movements and to rotate your forearm. Elbow pain can be caused by injury or strain to the bones in the elbow joint, the surrounding muscles, or the tendons, which attach the muscles to the bones.
Expert Elbow Specialists in Wake County
Raleigh Orthopaedic elbow specialists Dr. Cadet, Dr. Chambers, Dr. Jernigan, Dr. Schreiber, Dr. Tuttle, and Dr. Wein provide a complete range of surgical and nonsurgical treatments for elbow conditions. The Raleigh Orthopaedic elbow surgeons work closely with our on-site Certified Hand Therapists to treat a wide variety of conditions using conservative alternatives to ensure that our patients receive the most appropriate care for their elbow condition. Each of our Wake County clinics offer comprehensive care from our fellowship-trained elbow specialists.
Common Elbow Injuries Treated at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we want to help you live and move more comfortably, whether you are facing a sudden orthopedic injury or a long-term condition. Our physicians focus first on conservative treatment options, only considering surgery if it is completely necessary. We will make sure that all of your questions are answered, concerns are addressed, and that you have the tools you need to continue your recovery at home. Common elbow injuries and conditions we treat in Wake County include:
Elbow Treatments in Wake County
Elbow injuries can be complex and require expert evaluation before a treatment plan can be developed. Our experts will evaluate your individual situation before a diagnosis is reached and a specific plan of attack for your needs is developed.
If it is determined that surgery is not necessary for your condition or injury, our experts will come up with a treatment plan catered to you. These typically involve restricting movement of the elbow, avoiding certain activities, taking pain relievers, and/or starting physical therapy. Each aspect of your plan will be explained by our physicians so you fully understand your treatment.
Many elbow injuries do not require surgical intervention. Our physicians will likely recommend much more conservative treatments, as these typically yield great results and will get you back to doing what you love as quickly as possible. Injuries and conditions that usually do not require surgery include:
- UCL Tear
- Tennis Elbow
- Golfer’s Elbow
- Elbow Arthritis
- Throwing Injuries of the Elbow
- Olecranon Bursitis
- Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow
- Elbow Fractures
Reasons for Elbow Surgery
Raleigh Orthopaedic elbow surgeons may recommend surgery if one of the following circumstances applies to you. If surgery is recommended, your physician at Raleigh Orthopaedic will ensure that you have all the preparation information you need.
- Your elbow pain continues despite nonsurgical treatments
- You can no longer perform daily activities
- Your injury or condition limits your athletic performance
- You experience:
- Persistent pain in your elbow
- Pain after extensive use
- Stiffness after long periods of rest or inactivity
- Loss of range of motion
Surgical Treatments for Elbow Conditions and Injuries
Our elbow surgeons in Wake County are experts in several approaches to repairing the elbow. Learn more about some of the elbow procedures we perform at our orthopedic clinics in Wake County below.
The biceps tendons connect the soft tissue of the bicep to the bones and allow us to move our limbs. The bicep has two tendons, one of which connects to the elbow. Occasionally, trauma can cause this tendon to tear. This will often lead to pain and a decrease in range of motion. Reattaching the biceps tendon can be done in multiple ways – you will need to have a conversation with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your situation.
The elbow is one of the most common places in the body for arthritis to present. Arthroscopic surgery is often an excellent option because it allows your surgeon to address the issue without needing to undergo a long recovery time. Elbow arthroscopy involves minimal incision, as the doctor is able to use a camera tool to remove excess tissue and bone spurs from the joint. This reduces recovery time, getting you back to doing what you love more quickly.
Depending on the type and severity of your shoulder condition, shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves the upper arm bone and shoulder bone being separated and repaired, utilizing replacement ball and joint connections.
Elbow Clinics in Wake County
The Triangle Community can count on Raleigh Orthopaedic’s several clinic locations to provide top-of-the-line elbow care. With offices in Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Raleigh, Wakefield, and West Cary-Panther Creek, you never have to travel far for your treatment. Our two surgery centers in Raleigh and Panther Creek also offer expert surgical care so you can continue working with our expert physicians no matter your treatment plan.
Additional Information for Your Elbow Appointment
Please come to your first appointment 30 minutes early with your photo ID, insurance card, and if applicable, images or scans related to your visit. If your insurance plan has a copay, that will be collected at the time of check-in. At your first appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic, you will be expected to complete new patient forms, including a medical history questionnaire. You can update your demographics and fill out your new patient forms prior to your appointment through our Patient Portal. These forms will be used to get a baseline overview of pre-existing conditions and a better initial understanding of where and how you’re experiencing pain or discomfort.
If you are in need of urgent orthopedic care, please visit one of our four orthopedic Urgent Care clinics at Garner, Holly Springs, Raleigh or Wakefield. For emergency medical care, please visit UNC Rex Hospital, where Raleigh Orthopaedic specialists are on call for orthopedic trauma at all hours of the day.
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