Golfer’s Elbow Surgery
Golfer’s Elbow Surgeon
Golfer’s elbow is an injury that can occur due to sports such as golf, tennis, basketball, etc. and occupations such as carpentry and plumbing which involve overuse of the arm. It is a condition associated with pain on the inside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow surgeon Dr. Kelechi Okoroha provides diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatment plans in Minneapolis. He also provides highly specialized care during and after surgery. Contact Dr. Okoroha’s team for an appointment today!
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is a condition associated with pain on the inside of the elbow where tendons of your forearm attach to the bony prominence (medial epicondyle). It is also called medial epicondylitis and is caused by injury or irritation to the tendons which can become painful and swollen.
Besides golf, activities such as baseball or lifting a heavy bag or suitcase may also cause medial epicondylitis, hence the terms “baseball elbow” and “suitcase elbow” are also used.
Dr. Okoroha has extensive training in Golfer’s elbow surgery and provides this service for patients in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.
Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow is an injury that can occur due to sports such as golf, tennis, basketball, archery etc. which can involve overuse of the arm and wrist.
Other causes include:
- Improper technique while weight lifting or throwing.
- Certain occupations such as carpentry, plumbing etc.
Smoking and obesity may increase the risk of injury.
When Golfer’s elbow is suspected, it is important to schedule an orthopedic consultation for proper examination and care. Dr. Kelechi Okoroha is a Golfer’s elbow specialist who provides detailed examination and care for patients with Golfer’s elbow in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
The symptoms of golfer’s elbow include:
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- The stiffness of the elbow
- The weakness of the affected hand
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the fingers
- Difficulty moving the hand
Diagnosis of Golfer’s Elbow
Dr. Okoroha will review your medical history and daily activities. A physical examination is performed where elbow movement and pain are assessed. An X-ray or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan may be ordered to visualize the elbow joint.
Treatment of Golfer’s Elbow
After careful review of your history and examination, Dr. Okoroha will provide an individualized treatment plan to help you return to your normal function. Treatment options may include:
Non-surgical Methods
Golfer’s elbow can often be treated by conservative methods such as:
- Resting
- Application of moist heat to the region of pain
- Use of elbow wraps
- Mild massage to the painful area
- Stretching exercises
Surgery for Golfer’s Elbow
Surgical intervention is necessary if you do not respond to conservative methods after about 6 months. Open surgery is usually performed to treat Golfer’s elbow although an arthroscopic technique may also be used.
Surgery involves the following steps:
- Local or general anesthesia is administered.
- An incision is made over the medial epicondyle.
- Okoroha detaches the common origin for tendons attached to the medial epicondyle.
- Damaged and degenerated tendon tissue is removed without injuring the surrounding ligaments.
- Microfracture of the medial epicondyle is performed where numerous small holes are drilled into the bone to promote healing.
- The common origin for the tendons is then reattached to the bone and the incision closed.
Post-operative Measures
- Your arm is supported by a splint.
- Okoroha suggests light exercises such as sponge squeezing for the first few weeks.
- You may begin resistance exercises after 6-8 weeks.
- You may begin participating in sports after 6-8 months.
Risks and Complications Associated with Surgery for Golfer’s Elbow
Surgery for Golfer’s elbow may be associated with certain risks which include:
- Elbow ligament injuries
- Nerve injuries
- Hematoma
If you would like to have additional information on treatment of Golfer’s elbow or would like to learn more about Golfer’s elbow surgery, please contact the office of Dr. Okoroha, Golfer’s Elbow Surgeon serving the communities of Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.
