Elbow Stiffness and Pain
Pain and stiffness in your elbow is a common complaint that can severely impact your daily routine. The problem stiffness can be within the joint, or in the soft tissue surrounding the joint.
Stiff elbow can also be caused by:
- Autoimmune disease
- Birth defects
- Bursitis
- Fracture
- Infection
- Overuse
- Surgery
- Trauma
Symptoms, Diagnosis and Outlook
Symptoms of stiff elbow are primarily pain and inability to move your elbow normally. The symptoms may start off mild but get worse overtime until it is challenging to perform your daily functions like dressing or sleeping.
Diagnosis for frozen shoulder may include:
- Physical exam
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT scan)
- MRI scan
Treatments may include medication, physical therapy or surgery.
Experts in Care
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Top-Ranked by U.S. News & World Report
Penn State Health includes the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, ranked as one of the best orthopaedic providers in the country by U.S. News & World Report. This honor was earned because our doctors consistently deliver exceptional patient care and outcomes through advanced treatments, translational research and provider training.
Experts in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
The shoulder and elbow specialists at Penn State Health are board-certified orthopaedic surgeons and fellowship trained in shoulder and elbow surgery. Their expertise includes arthroscopic surgery, treatment of sports injuries, total joint replacement and fractures. They hold a unique position in central Pennsylvania because of their ability to combine extensive clinical and surgical experience with current research. This means that they can offer the best solution for your shoulder or elbow problem.
Advancing Orthopaedic Medicine Through Research
The doctors and researchers in our Center for Orthopaedic Research and Translational Science at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center are committed to advancing their field through scientific discovery and education. As the only academic medical center in central Pennsylvania, Hershey Medical Center is a national leader in research, in partnership with Penn State College of Medicine, and on the leading edge of new treatment options, including clinical trials.
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