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Elbow Pain

Personalized Elbow Care with Dr. Burke Orthopedics


Advanced Elbow Treatments from Dr. Burke – Get Back to Your Daily Life

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we know elbow pain can make simple tasks—lifting a bag, turning a doorknob, typing—unexpectedly difficult. Whether your symptoms started after a fall, long hours of repetitive work, or a sports season that never really “ended,” Dr. Robert L. Burke provides evidence-based, patient-first care to help you recover safely and confidently. Serving Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, our team emphasizes accurate diagnosis, clear education, and a stepwise plan that prioritizes conservative treatments before surgery whenever appropriate.

  • Revolutionary Cartilage Restoration
  • Long-Lasting Results
  • Minimally Invasive Procedure

Common Causes of Elbow Pain

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1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is not just a sports injury—it’s common in anyone who grips and lifts repeatedly (contractors, chefs, mechanics, frequent computer users). Microscopic tendon damage near the lateral epicondyle leads to pain that can radiate into the forearm and weaken your grip.

Symptoms:


  • Burning or sharp pain on the outside of the elbow that may travel down the forearm
  • Pain with lifting a pan, shaking hands, or gripping tools
  • Reduced grip strength and fatigue with repetitive motions


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • We start with activity modification, ergonomic coaching, and a targeted therapy program that focuses on eccentric strengthening of the wrist extensors. Anti-inflammatory strategies and bracing that offloads the common extensor tendon can speed healing. If pain persists, image-guided injections may be considered as part of a broader plan.


When Surgery Is Considered:


  • Persistent pain despite structured therapy may be treated with a minimally invasive procedure to remove degenerative tissue and stimulate healing.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Most patients improve in 6–12 weeks with conservative care; after surgery, expect several months of progressive rehabilitation with a return to normal activity once strength and motion are restored.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

This condition mirrors tennis elbow but occurs on the inner (medial) side. It’s linked to repetitive wrist flexion and gripping—common in golfers, pitchers, and trades that require frequent tool use.

Symptoms:


  • Tenderness or aching on the inner elbow
  • Pain with wrist flexion, forearm rotation, or gripping objects
  • Occasional tingling toward the ring and small fingers (overlap with ulnar nerve irritation)


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • A phased program includes relative rest, progressive loading, manual therapy, and correction of technique (swing, throw, ergonomic setup). Bracing can unload the tendon during daily tasks.


Surgical Considerations:


  • For refractory cases, surgical debridement or repair of the flexor-pronator origin may be recommended.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Typical non-surgical recovery in 6–10 weeks; surgical recovery is longer but returns many patients to full activity when therapy is followed closely.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

3. Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)

The bursa at the tip of the elbow can swell due to pressure, minor trauma, or infection. The swelling can be dramatic and uncomfortable, especially if you lean on your elbows for work.

Symptoms:


  • Soft, often visible swelling at the back of the elbow
  • Pain when bending the elbow or resting it on a surface
  • Warmth/redness if infection is present


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • We begin with activity changes, compression, and anti-inflammatory measures. If infected bursitis is suspected, we’ll address it promptly with appropriate antibiotics and, if needed, drainage.


Surgical Considerations:


  • Chronic or recurrent cases—especially with thickened bursal tissue—may benefit from surgical removal (bursectomy).


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical cases often improve in 2–4 weeks; post-op healing averages 6–8 weeks.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

4. Elbow Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Cartilage wear or autoimmune disease can cause stiffness, grinding, and a painful loss of motion. Many patients notice difficulty with simple reach, turning keys, or supporting their body weight.

Symptoms:


  • Deep, activity-related joint pain and morning stiffness
  • Catching or crepitus with motion
  • Reduced range of motion that interferes with daily tasks


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • We prioritize medication management (in coordination with your PCP/rheumatologist), joint protection strategies, and therapy to maintain motion. When appropriate, injections can provide short-term relief.


Surgical Considerations:


  • Severe cases may benefit from arthroscopy (to remove loose bodies), joint fusion, or total elbow replacement for pain relief and function.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Conservative relief often occurs over weeks to months. Surgical recovery varies by procedure, typically 3–6 months to meaningful function with a structured rehab plan.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

5. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Compression)

Pressure on the ulnar nerve inside the elbow can cause numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ring and small fingers. This is common with prolonged elbow flexion (phone use, sleeping with bent elbows) or repetitive elbow strain.

Symptoms:


  • Numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
  • Hand weakness or clumsiness, especially with fine tasks
  • Achy pain on the inside of the elbow


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • We start with activity modification, nighttime splinting (keeping the elbow straighter), and nerve-glide exercises. Workstation and driving posture changes often help.


Surgical Considerations:


  • If symptoms persist or weakness progresses, ulnar nerve decompression or transposition can relieve pressure and protect nerve function.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Conservative care: 4–6 weeks. After surgery, gradual improvement continues for several months as the nerve recovers.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

6. Elbow Fractures

Falls, sports, or work accidents can fracture one or more bones around the elbow. Restoring alignment is crucial for motion and long-term joint health.

Symptoms:


  • Sudden severe pain and swelling after trauma
  • Bruising and limited or blocked motion
  • Visible deformity in significant injuries


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • Minor, well-aligned fractures can heal with immobilization and close monitoring. Complex fractures often require surgical fixation (plates, screws, pins) to restore joint surfaces and stability.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical: 6–8 weeks. Surgical: 10–12+ weeks with therapy focused on regaining safe motion and strength.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

7. Tendonitis, Tendinopathy & Overuse Injuries

Repetitive work or sport can inflame tendons or lead to degenerative changes (tendinopathy). Without guidance, “rest alone” can lead to deconditioning and relapse.

Symptoms:


  • Aching pain after activity; morning or end-of-day stiffness
  • Tenderness where tendons anchor to bone
  • Grip weakness or fatigue with repetitive tasks


How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • We combine graded loading (eccentric and isometric strengthening), flexibility work, and targeted ergonomics. Education about pacing and recovery is essential to prevent recurrence.


Surgical Considerations:


  • Reserved for severe, function-limiting cases that fail comprehensive conservative care.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Mild cases improve in 4–6 weeks; complex tendinopathy may require a 3–4 month structured program.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

8. Ligament Tears (UCL and Others)

Throwing athletes and heavy laborers may stretch or tear elbow igaments, causing instability and pain with forceful use.

Symptoms:


Throwing athletes and heavy laborers may stretch or tear elbow ligaments, causing instability and pain with forceful use.

How Dr. Burke Treats It:


  • Early care focuses on inflammation control, bracing, kinetic-chain assessment (shoulder, core, hips), and gradual return-to-throwing protocols.


Surgical Considerations:


  • High-grade tears, especially in competitive throwers, may need UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) or primary repair depending on tissue quality.


Recovery Timeline:


  • Non-surgical: 6–10 weeks for daily function. Post-reconstruction: 9–12 months to full athletic return with sport-specific rehab.

  • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
  • Personalized Care
  • FDA-Cleared Procedure

Diagnostics, Prevention & When to Seek Care

How We Pinpoint Your Diagnosis


  • We combine a detailed history, focused exam, and selective imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) when needed. The goal is to confirm the pain source and rule out conditions that mimic elbow disorders (cervical radiculopathy, systemic arthritis).


    • Smart Prevention for Daily Life & Work


    • Adjust workstation height and mouse/keyboard position to reduce wrist and elbow strain
    • Use neutral-grip tools and alternate tasks to avoid prolonged repetitive motion
    • Warm up, strengthen forearm and shoulder stabilizers, and progress activity gradually
    • Take micro-breaks (30–60 seconds) every 20–30 minutes of repetitive work


    When to Call Us Promptly


    • Severe pain after an injury, visible deformity, or inability to move the elbow
    • Numbness/tingling or progressive weakness in the hand
    • Redness, warmth, fever, or rapidly increasing swelling (possible infection)

    • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
    • Personalized Care
    • FDA-Cleared Procedure

    Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

    • Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience
    • Evidence-based, patient-centered approach from first visit through rehab
    • Comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and therapy under one roof
    • Trusted by patients throughout Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas

    • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
    • Personalized Care
    • FDA-Cleared Procedure

    Get Same-Day Diagnosis and
    Treatment for Elbow Pain

    Elbow pain shouldn’t keep you from work, family, or the activities you love. Dr. Burke Orthopedics offers same-day appointments for evaluation and timely treatment. From tennis elbow and bursitis to UCL injuries and fractures, you’ll get a clear diagnosis, a personalized plan, and guided rehabilitation close to home in Houston and Pearland.

    (713) 436-3488

    Disclaimer:


    The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional care based on information you have read here. Click For The Full Declaimer

    • Innovative Regenerative Therapy
    • Personalized Care
    • FDA-Cleared Procedure

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    • How do I know if my elbow pain requires medical attention?
      If your elbow pain persists for more than a few days, or if you experience swelling, bruising, weakness, or numbness, it’s time to see Dr. Burke. These could be signs of an injury or condition that needs medical evaluation.
    • Can elbow injuries heal without surgery?
      Many elbow conditions, such as sprains, tendonitis, and even some fractures, can heal with non-surgical treatments like rest, bracing, and physical therapy. Dr. Burke will assess your condition and recommend the best course of action for your recovery.
    • How soon can I return to sports after an elbow injury?
      Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your injury. Minor sprains and strains may only require a few weeks of recovery, while more serious injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, could take several months. Dr. Burke will work closely with you to create a rehabilitation plan tailored to your needs and goals.
    • What happens if I ignore elbow pain or delay treatment?
      Ignoring elbow pain or delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms, chronic pain, and even permanent damage to the joint or nerves. Early diagnosis and treatment with Dr. Burke can help prevent long-term issues and improve your chances of a full recovery.
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