NorthPark Neuropathy & Wellness
R Todd Petersen, D.C., DACBSP, OPA-C, ATC, LAT
Chiropractic and Rehabilitation Center & Board Certified in Sports Medicine located in Snider Plaza / University Park, Dallas, TX
Elbow pain can result from a variety of issues, but overuse and repetitive stress are common culprits. At NorthPark Neuropathy & Wellness in Dallas, Texas, sports chiropractor R. Todd Petersen, DC, diagnoses and treats all kinds of elbow pain in children, teens, and adults. If you or a loved one has elbow pain, call the clinic or request an appointment online today.
Elbow Pain Q&A
What causes elbow pain?
The elbow is a hinge joint where the two bones of your forearm meet your upper arm bone. Other structures in your elbow include tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Damage to any of these tissues can lead to elbow pain.
At NorthPark Neuropathy & Wellness, Dr. Petersen treats various injuries that cause elbow pain, including:
Tendinitis
Tendinitis, which is inflammation in one or more tendons, is a leading cause of elbow pain. Tennis elbow is inflammation in the tendons on the outside of your elbow, while a condition called golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside.
Ligament injuries
The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a commonly injured ligament in throwing athletes like baseball pitchers. A UCL injury causes pain on the inside of the elbow.
Other problems
Other causes of elbow pain include valgus extension overload (pitcher’s elbow), olecranon stress fractures, and ulnar neuritis.
Who is most likely to develop elbow pain?
Elbow pain can affect anyone, but certain people may be more likely to sustain an elbow injury. Factors that can increase your risk for elbow pain include participating in sports that use repetitive arm movements like baseball, tennis, and golf.
Having a job that requires vigorous forearm use or repetitive wrist and hand extension like painting, plumbing, and carpentry can also increase your likelihood of developing elbow pain.
What symptoms may occur with elbow pain?
The symptoms you experience depend on the underlying cause of your elbow pain. Generally, elbow pain can be associated with arm weakness, a decrease in grip strength, and reduced throwing velocity.
How does chiropractic care treat elbow pain?
First, Dr. Petersen asks about your elbow pain, including when it started and whether certain movements make it better or worse. He reviews your medical history and any imaging tests, such as X-rays, and examines your elbow to check its strength, stability, and range of motion.
After he identifies the root cause of your elbow pain, Dr. Petersen creates an individualized treatment plan that may include:
- Physical therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Sports medicine
- Massage
- Laser therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Ultrasound
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Ergonomic assessment and recommendations
For safe and effective treatment of elbow pain, call NorthPark Neuropathy & Wellness, or book an appointment online today.
