Elbow Disorders New Jersey
(201) 639-6620
Paramus, NJ
Franklin Lakes, NJ
Montvale, NJ
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 4 PM
Specialties
Introduction
The elbow plays an important role in both everyday function and athletic performance. Whether you’re lifting groceries, typing at a desk, or swinging a racket, the elbow’s health supports your daily life. When pain, stiffness, or injury occurs, it can limit mobility and cause ongoing discomfort.
Dr. Kohan is dedicated to diagnosing and treating elbow conditions throughout New Jersey. With a personalized approach to care, he aims to help patients regain comfort, restore range of motion, and return to an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Elbow Anatomy
The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by three bones: the humerus (upper arm), and the radius and ulna (forearm). It allows for flexion, extension, and rotation of the arm, all controlled by surrounding muscles like the biceps and triceps. The medial and lateral collateral ligaments provide joint stability, while tendons and cartilage facilitate smooth, coordinated movement.
Due to this anatomical complexity and frequent use, the elbow is prone to injuries from overuse, degenerative changes, and trauma.
Common Elbow Disorders
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
This condition involves compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the inner elbow, leading to numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers. Symptoms often worsen with prolonged elbow bending or pressure.
Treatment may include nighttime bracing, ergonomic adjustments, and nerve gliding exercises. If conservative care fails, surgical nerve decompression may be recommended.
Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture
This condition occurs when the tendon that connects the biceps muscle to the forearm tears, often during a forceful lifting motion or sudden load. Patients typically report a sharp pain or “pop” at the elbow, followed by bruising and weakness when bending or rotating the arm.
Most cases benefit from surgical tendon reattachment, especially in active individuals. Early treatment is important to ensure a full return of arm strength and motion.
Elbow Arthritis
Elbow arthritis is a progressive condition marked by the breakdown of cartilage within the joint. This deterioration can result from aging, repetitive motion, or prior injuries. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, and reduced ability to fully extend or bend the arm.
Management options include anti-inflammatory medications, activity modifications, and physical therapy. In more advanced cases, surgical procedures such as arthroscopy or elbow replacement may be considered.
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
This overuse injury develops from repetitive wrist extension or gripping, causing irritation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It often leads to an aching or burning pain that worsens with activity, especially when lifting or turning the wrist.
Initial treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy. Persistent cases may require bracing or injections. Surgery is rarely needed, but in select cases, may be considered.
Loose Bodies
Loose bodies refer to fragments of cartilage or bone that break free inside the elbow joint, often as a result of trauma or degenerative conditions. These fragments can interfere with joint movement, causing intermittent pain, catching, or locking sensations.
Arthroscopic removal is typically used to eliminate the fragments and clean the joint. Physical therapy may follow to improve strength and range of motion.
Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)
Medial epicondylitis results from repetitive wrist flexion or forearm gripping, leading to inflammation of the tendons on the inner elbow. Symptoms include pain and tenderness near the bony bump of the elbow, sometimes radiating into the forearm.
Treatment usually involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and bracing. Preventive care includes correcting techniques and strengthening the forearm to reduce tendon stress.
Olecranon Fractures
These fractures affect the tip of the elbow, usually caused by direct impact or a fall onto the elbow. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty straightening the arm.
Surgical intervention may be required to realign and stabilize the bone, followed by immobilization and structured rehabilitation to restore function.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury
UCL injuries most commonly affect athletes involved in throwing sports. These injuries occur when repeated stress or sudden trauma damages the ligament on the inner elbow, leading to pain, weakness, or instability.
Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. In more severe cases, UCL reconstruction (Tommy John surgery) may be recommended.
Treatment & Recovery
Effective treatment of elbow disorders depends on the severity and type of condition. Dr. Kohan emphasizes a personalized approach, combining non-surgical and surgical options for optimal outcomes.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, and physical therapy are often the first line of treatment for many elbow conditions.
- Surgical Treatments: Severe or persistent injuries, such as fractures or tendon ruptures, may require surgical repair. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, is commonly used to treat arthritis or remove loose bodies.
- Rehabilitation and Prevention: Recovery plans focus on gradually restoring motion, strength, and flexibility. Preventive strategies include proper warm-ups before activities, ergonomic practices, and strengthening exercises for the forearm and elbow.
Elbow pain can interfere with work, sports, and daily living, but expert care can make all the difference. Dr. Kohan offers comprehensive treatment options for elbow disorders, tailored to your lifestyle and health goals. Whether you’re managing a chronic issue or recovering from an injury, Dr. Kohan’s specialized care can help you regain function and return to the activities you love.