Receive the care you need

When elbow pain, stiffness, or limited motion starts affecting your daily life, an experienced elbow specialist in Chicago can help you get back to feeling normal. At Hand to Shoulder Associates, our board-certified elbow specialists provide comprehensive, personalized care for the full range of elbow conditions — from overuse injuries to fractures and nerve compression. Whether you need a non-surgical treatment plan or advanced surgical care, our team is here to help restore comfort and function.

Elbow conditions we treat

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Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis Elbow

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is characterized by inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Forearm motions such as gripping, twisting, or lifting can lead to tiny tears in the tendons, resulting in pain and limited elbow function. Our specialists employ various treatment approaches, including conservative measures such as:

  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Bracing

In cases where non-surgical treatments are ineffective, we may recommend minimally invasive elbow surgery to promote healing and alleviate symptoms.

Medial Epicondylitis Golfer's Elbow

Medial epicondylitis, or golfer's elbow, is similar to tennis elbow but affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It is commonly caused by wrist and hand motions, such as gripping or swinging a golf club.

Our specialists will evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include the following:

  • Rest
  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Corticosteroid injections

In cases where conservative measures fail to provide relief, our skilled surgeons may recommend surgical options to repair and restore the affected tendons.

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Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Ulnar Neuropathy

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which passes through the elbow's cubital tunnel, becomes compressed or irritated. This can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Weakness
  • Pain in the elbow, forearm, and hand

Our specialists will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the severity of the condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Non-surgical approaches, such as activity modifications, splinting, and physical therapy, are often effective in managing symptoms. In cases where conservative treatments are unsuccessful, surgical intervention may be recommended to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve.

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Elbow Fractures

Elbow fractures can occur due to traumatic injuries, such as falls or direct blows to the elbow. Fractures may involve the upper arm bone (humerus), forearm bones (radius and ulna), or the elbow joint itself. Our specialists are experienced in diagnosing and treating various types of elbow fractures, ranging from stable fractures that can be managed with conservative treatments, such as immobilization and physical therapy, to more complex fractures that may require surgical intervention for realignment and stabilization.

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Biceps Tendon Repair

Biceps tendon tears can occur near the elbow, resulting in pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Our specialists are skilled in diagnosing and treating biceps tendon injuries.

Treatment options may include conservative measures such as:

  • Rest
  • Activity modification
  • Physical therapy

In cases where the tear is severe or causing significant impairment, surgical repair may be recommended. Our experienced surgeons utilize advanced techniques to reattach the torn tendon and restore strength and function to the biceps muscle.

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Why choose HSA for elbow care?

When you're searching for an elbow specialist in Chicago, experience and credentials matter. At Hand to Shoulder Associates, every elbow specialist on our team is board-certified and fellowship-trained, with a singular focus on the upper extremity — not general orthopedics. That specialization means faster, more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans built around your specific condition, whether it's tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome, or a fracture.

As the largest fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgical group in Illinois, our elbow specialists see a high volume of elbow cases each year, giving them deep experience across both non-surgical treatments (splinting, physical therapy, activity modification) and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is the right option. With convenient locations across the Chicago area, you can see a specialist close to home and get access to same-day appointments when you need care fast.

Don't wait to address elbow pain or limited mobility. Contact Hand to Shoulder Associates today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced, board-certified elbow specialists in Chicago.

Elbow Specialist FAQ

What does an elbow specialist treat?

When should I see an elbow specialist in Chicago?

Do I need a referral to see an elbow specialist at HSA?

What's the difference between an elbow specialist and a general orthopedic surgeon?

Are non-surgical treatment options available for elbow conditions?

What does an elbow specialist treat?

An elbow specialist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the joint, tendons, ligaments, and nerves of the elbow, including tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome, fractures, arthritis, and instability. At HSA, our elbow specialists also treat overlapping conditions affecting the wrist and shoulder.

When should I see an elbow specialist in Chicago?

See a specialist if elbow pain, numbness, tingling, or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks, worsens with activity, or limits your ability to work or perform daily tasks. A sudden injury, such as a fall or direct blow to the elbow, also warrants prompt evaluation.

Do I need a referral to see an elbow specialist at HSA?

Most patients can schedule directly with one of our elbow specialists without a referral, though this may depend on your insurance plan. Contact our office to confirm your specific coverage requirements.

What's the difference between an elbow specialist and a general orthopedic surgeon?

All of our elbow specialists are board-certified orthopedic surgeons who've completed additional fellowship training focused exclusively on the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder — a level of specialization beyond what a general orthopedic surgeon typically offers.

Are non-surgical treatment options available for elbow conditions?

Yes. Many conditions, including tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and early-stage cubital tunnel syndrome, respond well to non-surgical treatment such as activity modification, splinting, and physical therapy. Surgery is typically only recommended when conservative treatment hasn't relieved symptoms.

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