Most Frequently Asked Questions About Elbow Surgery

Lateral epicondylitis, more commonly known as tennis elbow, affects 1-3% of Americans, mainly between the ages of 35-54. The most common symptom is elbow pain from overuse or tearing of the tendons. 

No matter what you call your pain, the fact remains that your everyday life is interrupted by pain and inflammation of your elbow. For some people with elbow pain, physical therapy and rest are enough; for others, surgery is necessary to get back to enjoying the life you deserve.

CORE Orthopedics wants to help you enjoy this summer pain-free, so we put together this list of the most commonly asked questions about elbow pain and treatment options.

What Kind of Elbow Surgery Procedures Does CORE Orthopedics Provide?

When it comes to procedures related to the elbow, the skilled surgeons at CORE Orthopedics are proficient in various techniques, including arthroscopic debridement and Tommy John surgery.

For a comprehensive overview of the elbow-related procedures and treatments available from the doctors at CORE Orthopedics, visit our dedicated elbow treatment page.

How Can I Prepare for Elbow Surgery?

Preparing for surgery is oftentimes stressful and confusing. Before your appointment, here are a few suggestions that might help you.

First, during your appointment before the surgery, ask any questions you have about the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and expected recovery timeline. During this appointment, your doctor may suggest stopping certain medications if they cause problems during the procedure.

You should also prepare your home for recovery. That includes having a ride home after the procedure and helping around the house (pre-cooked meals, house cleaning, etc.).

Talk with your doctor about when you can eat and drink before and after your procedure.

Why Do I Need Elbow Surgery?

Elbow surgery is recommended if you’re experiencing severe pain, limited mobility, or issues performing everyday activities.

A few reasons for surgery include:

• Injury or trauma
• Chronic conditions
• Nerve compression

If you need elbow surgery, it’s important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

Is Elbow Surgery Always Necessary?

No, elbow surgery is not always necessary. 

In many cases, non-surgical treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and other pain management techniques effectively treat elbow conditions and injuries. 

However, in other cases where conservative measures have failed or an elbow condition has been ignored for a long time, surgery or steroid injections are necessary to improve function, reduce pain, or prevent further damage.

Is Elbow Surgery a Major Surgery?

While every surgery has the potential for complications, many of CORE Orthopedics’ elbow surgery options are outpatient, meaning you get to go home the same day as your procedure.

These minimally invasive procedures do require anesthesia and someone to drive you home. Once you’re home, you’ll begin a rehabilitation routine involving physical therapy and in-home exercises to make recovery as painless and quick as possible.

What are Potential Risks or Complications Associated With Elbow Surgery?

Before your procedure, your doctor will review all of the potential risks of surgery. Depending on your health, there may be information specific to you not included below.

For surgery, a few common risks include infection, blood clots, muscle damage, or allergic reactions to anesthesia. Every patient is different, which is why CORE Orthopedics works with you to help provide the safest, most comfortable surgical plan possible.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Elbow Surgery?

The recovery time for elbow surgery varies widely depending on the type of surgery, the individual patient, and other factors. 

For minor procedures such as arthroscopic debridement or aspiration of the olecranon bursa, patients may resume normal activities within a few days to a couple of weeks. 

For more extensive surgeries like open reduction and internal fixation or Tommy John surgery, patients may require several months of rehabilitation and physical therapy before returning to their normal activities.

What Does Recovery Look Like For Elbow Surgery?

Generally, after surgery, patients may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected elbow. Pain medication and physical therapy may be prescribed to help manage pain and restore range of motion. 

Depending on the procedure, patients may need to wear a brace or cast for some time to immobilize the elbow and promote healing. 

Patients gradually begin participating in physical therapy as the elbow heals to help rebuild strength and flexibility. 

Recovery time and outcomes vary depending on the type of surgery and individual patient, but physical therapy and following postoperative instructions help ensure a successful recovery and a return to normal activities. 

When Can I Return To Activities After Elbow Surgery?

Most patients can return to activities around 3-6 months after their procedure. Every recovery differs and depends on age, health, and surgical healing.

What Should I Do If I Experience Complications or Unusual Symptoms After Surgery?

Contact your surgeon and medical team immediately if you experience unusual pain, bruising, or other complications. Your doctors will know your case best, so do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have after surgery.

Do You Have Elbow Pain? Schedule an Appointment with CORE Orthopedics Today!

The skilled surgeons at CORE Orthopedics are proficient in various elbow surgery procedures, including minimally invasive outpatient options. For more information, contact CORE Orthopedics today.