Elbow And Hand Pain Specialist
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Michael V Elman, M.D., P.C.
Orthopaedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist located in Braintree, MA & Foxboro, MA
Elbow and hand pain can be quite complex and challenging to treat because they affect such small and narrow areas. That’s why you need experienced orthopedic specialist Michael V. Elman M.D., P.C., on your side. Dr. Elman treats all types of elbow and hand pain in his Braintree, Massachusetts, office, and he’s ready to recommend treatments for permanent relief now. Call the office or book your assessment with online scheduling now.
Elbow and Hand Pain Q & A
What causes elbow and hand pain?
Trigger finger
Trigger finger happens when tendon sheath inflammation within one of your fingers causes tendon compression. This leads to the finger sometimes getting stuck in a bent position. Sometimes a trigger finger makes a snapping noise when you bend or straighten it. Pain usually accompanies these other mechanical symptoms.
Compressive Neuropathy
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compressive neuropathy and occurs when the median nerve is compressed within the carpal tunnel, a zone at the base of the palm,. This compression can cause symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hand and wrist. Symptoms can extend up the arm, as well.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a similar problem affecting the ulnar nerve at the elbow.
Arthritis
Arthritis can affect any joint, including the elbow and the smaller joints in your hands and fingers. Rheumatoid arthritis is particularly common in the hands. Osteoarthritis can occur in the elbow, hands, and other joints, too.
Epicondylitis
Medial and lateral epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s and tennis elbow respectively, are very common sources of elbow pain that may radiate down the forearm. There are many other reasons for elbow and hand pain, including tendinitis, ganglion cysts, bursitis, and traumatic injury, among others.
How do you diagnose elbow and hand pain?
Dr. Elman reviews all your symptoms and performs a physical exam of your hand, arm, and elbow to look for possible problems. Your exam may include making a fist, moving your fingers in certain ways, and other manipulation that allows Dr. Elman to observe your joints in motion.
He may perform an X-ray, ultrasound, or other imaging to find bone, ligament, tendon, and other hand and elbow problems. If Dr. Elman suspects you have nerve issue, he may perform nerve function tests as well.
What is the treatment for elbow and hand pain?
Because there are so many causes of elbow and hand pain, treatment varies quite widely from one patient to another. Dr. Elman is well versed in the most advanced non-surgical and surgical elbow and hand pain treatments, and he’s committed to relieving your pain for good.
With both operative and non-operative treatments, you may need to use a support brace or splint as you recover. Physical therapy can also help you restore hand and arm strength and function.