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Precision Elbow Care from the Midwest’s Top Team

When pain, stiffness, or instability in your elbow starts to interfere with daily life, the fellowship-trained surgeons at Hand to Shoulder Associates are here to help. With over 40 years of experience serving the Chicago metro area, our practice is one of the most trusted names in upper extremity care. Each of our board-certified specialists has completed advanced fellowship training, with a focus on diagnosing and treating complex elbow conditions through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Mobility affects everything, from your work performance to your ability to enjoy hobbies and manage everyday tasks. That’s why restoring your elbow’s function is our top priority. Our team works closely with you to improve movement, reduce pain, and restore long-term joint performance, using today’s most effective surgical techniques, including minimally invasive options.

Schedule your consultation today to start your path toward expert evaluation, personalized treatment, and lasting elbow relief with Hand to Shoulder Associates.

Mna lifts heavy weights with ease to showcase his arm and elbow strength

What Is Elbow Surgery?

Elbow surgery refers to a range of procedures designed to repair, reconstruct, or relieve damaged structures within the elbow joint. These may include tendons, ligaments, cartilage, nerves, or bone. Depending on the underlying condition, elbow surgery can range from minimally invasive arthroscopy to complex tendon repairs or joint replacements. At Hand to Shoulder Associates, every surgical plan is customized to your specific needs, to reduce pain and restore motion as efficiently as possible.

Am I a Good Candidate for Elbow Surgery?

You may be a good candidate for elbow surgery in Chicago if:

  • You have ongoing elbow pain or stiffness that limits daily activities, and non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief
  • Imaging shows damage to the bones, tendons, ligaments, or nerves of the elbow
  • Your symptoms are interfering with sleep, grip strength, or arm stability

An in-depth evaluation by one of our board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians will determine whether surgery is the most appropriate course of treatment for your needs.

Benefits of Elbow Surgery in Chicago

Experience comprehensive benefits that improve your quality of life and get you back to what matters most.

  • Reduced or eliminated elbow pain
  • Restored range of motion and flexibility
  • Increased strength and function
  • Ability to return to work, sports, and daily activities
  • Long-term relief for chronic conditions

Our Chicago elbow surgery specialists focus on restoring mobility so you can return to your routine without pain holding you back. We use advanced techniques and personalized care to achieve the best possible results.

Common Reasons Patients Need Elbow Surgery

Our specialists routinely perform elbow surgery to treat conditions such as:

  • Tendon injuries, including tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
  • Nerve compression, such as cubital tunnel syndrome
  • Elbow arthritis, both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Elbow fractures or dislocations
  • Loose bodies in the joint
  • Chronic instability
  • Labral or ligament tears
  • Sports-related trauma or overuse injuries
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Super friendly doctor and staff. They took the time needed to be sure I had a full recovery and felt comfortable, even at the beginning when I was in a lot of pain. The PT staff here are also amazing and very helpful. Excellent service, facilities, and doctor. I highly recommend them if you are ever in need of this type of care!

-Stacy D.

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Diagnosis and Treatment: Elbow Surgery in Chicago

Getting the right diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. At Hand to Shoulder Associates, your care begins with a thorough diagnostic evaluation. This includes a clinical examination, advanced imaging, and a detailed review of your symptoms and history. Once we understand the root cause of your elbow condition, we will walk you through every treatment option, from conservative therapy to surgical solutions.

If surgery is the best option, we’ll use the most advanced techniques available, including minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques. Our surgical team has deep experience in treating even the most complex elbow disorders.

Elbow Surgery Recovery and Results

Recovery time will vary depending on the procedure performed, your overall health, and the nature of your condition. Most patients can expect to begin physical therapy shortly after surgery, guided by our team to rebuild strength and motion safely.

Full recovery may take several weeks to a few months. We closely monitor your progress and adjust your recovery plan to ensure you heal safely and successfully.

Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function, allowing them to return to work, sports, and daily routines with renewed confidence.

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Why Choose Hand to Shoulder Associates for Elbow Surgery?

Choosing HSA means choosing excellence, experience, and patient-first care. We are:

  • The largest fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgical group in Illinois
  • Experts in both orthopedic and microvascular techniques
  • Board-certified and nationally recognized for advanced training and leadership in the field
  • Committed to providing one-on-one care from a physician, not just an assistant
  • Available across eight convenient locations in the Chicagoland area
  • Proud to offer same-day appointments

Our specialists bring decades of expertise to every case. When you need elbow surgery, trust the team that combines advanced skill with genuine compassion.

Chicagoland Elbow Surgery FAQ

Can elbow surgery be performed under regional anesthesia?

Will I need to wear a brace or cast after elbow surgery?

How do I prepare for elbow surgery?

Are there non-surgical alternatives to elbow surgery?

Can elbow surgery help with chronic swelling or inflammation?

Does weather affect recovery after elbow surgery?

Can I drive after elbow surgery?

What role does physical therapy play after elbow surgery?

Are there risks of nerve damage during elbow surgery?

Will I be able to return to sports after elbow surgery?

Can elbow surgery be performed under regional anesthesia?

Yes, many elbow procedures can be performed under regional anesthesia, which numbs the arm while allowing you to remain awake and avoid general anesthesia risks.

Will I need to wear a brace or cast after elbow surgery?

Depending on your procedure, your surgeon may recommend a brace or splint to protect the joint during initial healing and ensure proper alignment.

How do I prepare for elbow surgery?

Pre-surgical preparation may include medical evaluations, stopping certain medications, fasting instructions, and coordinating transportation for the day of your surgery.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to elbow surgery?

Yes, treatment may include physical therapy, medications, injections, or activity modification. Surgery is generally considered when these methods no longer provide relief.

Can elbow surgery help with chronic swelling or inflammation?

Yes, if the swelling is caused by structural damage, impingement, or joint degeneration, surgical intervention may reduce inflammation and improve function.

Does weather affect recovery after elbow surgery?

Cold weather can temporarily stiffen healing joints, but with proper rehabilitation and movement, seasonal changes should not significantly impact long-term recovery.

Can I drive after elbow surgery?

You should not drive until your surgeon clears you to do so, typically after you regain strength and mobility and are no longer taking narcotic pain medication.

What role does physical therapy play after elbow surgery?

Physical therapy is critical to restoring motion, strength, and flexibility. Your therapist will guide exercises and stretches tailored to your specific surgery and condition.

Are there risks of nerve damage during elbow surgery?

While rare, nerve injury is a potential risk in any elbow procedure. Our fellowship-trained surgeons use precision techniques to minimize this risk.

Will I be able to return to sports after elbow surgery?

In most cases, yes. With proper healing and rehabilitation, many patients return to their previous level of athletic activity under their surgeon's guidance.

Understanding Elbow Arthroscopy

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions to diagnose and treat various elbow conditions. This approach often results in less pain, reduced scarring, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

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Man working out with ropes shows his ability and strength in his elbows and arms

Complementary Non-Surgical Treatments to Support Elbow Surgery in Chicago

While elbow surgery in Chicago is often the most effective solution for complex or advanced elbow issues, many patients benefit from complementary non-surgical treatments that help manage symptoms, improve function, and potentially delay or avoid surgery altogether. At Hand to Shoulder Associates, our fellowship-trained specialists provide personalized care plans that include:

  • Physical Therapy: Customized exercises and stretches strengthen muscles around the elbow, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Physical therapy plays a critical role both before and after elbow surgery in Chicago to optimize recovery.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers can ease discomfort and swelling, helping you stay active while undergoing treatment.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Targeted injections reduce inflammation in the joint or surrounding tissues, providing relief especially in cases of arthritis or tendonitis.
  • Activity Modification: Guidance on adjusting daily activities and ergonomic practices to reduce stress on the elbow and prevent further injury.
  • Bracing and Splinting: Supports that stabilize and protect the elbow during healing or flare-ups, enhancing comfort and function.

Together, these non-surgical treatments form an important part of a comprehensive approach to elbow care. Our team will work with you to determine the best combination of therapies tailored to your condition and lifestyle, ensuring you receive the most effective and least invasive treatment possible.

Other Surgical Specialties in Chicago

At Hand to Shoulder Associates, our board-certified surgical specialists treat a full spectrum of upper-extremity conditions, from the hand and wrist to the shoulder.

Whether you’re battling a stubborn frozen shoulder or need expert care for hand, wrist, or elbow injuries, our Chicago team delivers precision, compassion, and comprehensive rehabilitation support.

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