Elbow Surgeons in Missoula, Montana
Specialties
Providing Compassionate Elbow Care to Patients Throughout Montana
If you are experiencing elbow pain, stiffness, or a recent injury, the trusted elbow specialists at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic in Missoula, Montana, are here to help. We treat both adult and pediatric patients with a wide range of elbow conditions, including tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, tendinitis, tendinopathy, cubital tunnel syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Whether you need non-surgical care, advanced arthroscopy, or elbow surgery such as Tommy John surgery, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons and compassionate staff are committed to helping you find relief, restore mobility, and return to your everyday activities. Call (406) 728-6101 or schedule your appointment online through our contact page.
Common Elbow Conditions We Treat at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Elbow pain can come from a wide range of conditions, and many of them can seriously limit your ability to work, play, or complete daily tasks. Our orthopaedic specialists in Missoula provide personalized treatments for all types of elbow injuries, from overuse disorders like tendinitis to severe trauma and fractures. Our skilled team of elbow surgeons utilizes the latest medical advancements, research, and surgical techniques to help patients regain function, reduce pain, and prevent long-term damage.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is a painful condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It’s common in athletes, manual laborers, and anyone performing repetitive gripping or lifting motions. Our Missoula shoulder and elbow doctors offer nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, including physical therapy, bracing, and arthroscopy, to help patients manage pain and regain strength.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow, causing pain that may radiate down the arm. Like tennis elbow, it’s caused by overuse and can become chronic without proper care. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, we offer effective treatment plans tailored to each patient, including targeted exercises and, when needed, minimally invasive elbow surgery.
Elbow Arthritis (Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis)
Elbow arthritis can develop from trauma, age-related wear, or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It often causes stiffness, swelling, and limited movement. Our experienced elbow surgeons may recommend anti-inflammatory medication, injections, or surgery, such as joint resurfacing or replacement, to help relieve pain and improve function.
Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)
Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow becomes irritated or inflamed. This may result from repetitive pressure, injury, or infection. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and tenderness. Treatment for elbow bursitis may involve rest, aspiration, antibiotics, or surgery if the condition does not improve with conservative care.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injuries
Common among throwing athletes, UCL injuries often involve a partial or complete tear of the ligament inside the elbow. Severe cases may require Tommy John surgery, a procedure that our experienced orthopaedic surgeons perform to reconstruct the ligament and restore joint stability.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Compression)
This condition, a type of tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed near the elbow, often causing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent nerve damage. Our physicians may recommend splinting, therapy, or cubital tunnel syndrome release surgery to relieve symptoms.
Elbow Fractures and Dislocations
Broken bones or dislocated joints in the elbow are typically caused by falls or direct trauma. These serious injuries often require urgent evaluation by our Missoula elbow surgeons, who utilize advanced imaging and customized treatment plans, ranging from casting to surgical repair, to ensure optimal healing and a full return of function.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Daily activities, sports, and physical labor can all contribute to chronic stress on the elbow joint, leading to tendinopathy, inflammation, and weakness. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term problems. We provide noninvasive therapies and supportive care to help patients recover and avoid future flare-ups.
Tendon Tears and Strains
Tendon damage in the elbow can result from sudden trauma or long-term overuse. Partial and full-thickness tears may affect movement and cause significant pain. Our team of elbow specialists offers surgical repair and structured rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility in the affected elbow.
Loose Bodies or Cartilage Damage
Loose fragments of bone or cartilage can float within the elbow joint, causing locking, catching, and pain. This condition is often related to arthritis, injury, or degeneration. Our orthopedic care includes advanced arthroscopy to remove these fragments and smooth damaged surfaces to improve joint function.
Signs You Should See an Elbow Specialist in Missoula, Montana
If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain, swelling, or limited movement, it may be time to consult with the trusted elbow surgeons at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic. Many elbow injuries and disorders, including tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome, and tendinitis, can worsen over time without the right treatment.
You should consider scheduling an appointment at NRO if you notice numbness, tingling, a decrease in grip strength, or difficulty using your arm for daily activities. Sudden trauma, visible deformity, or inability to straighten or bend the elbow are also urgent signs that you need specialized care. Our experienced orthopaedic surgeons are here to help you find answers and create a personalized plan to reduce pain and restore your range of motion.
How Our Orthopaedic Surgeons Diagnose Elbow Problems in Missoula
At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, our Missoula orthopaedic surgeons take a thorough and personalized approach to diagnosing elbow injuries and disorders. Your visit will begin with a detailed review of your medical history, a physical exam, and a discussion about your symptoms, daily activities, and when your elbow pain began.
Depending on your condition, our elbow doctors may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds to get a closer look at bones, soft tissue, and nerves. These tools help us identify conditions like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome, tendinopathy, tendinosis, arthritis, or damage caused by trauma. In some cases, advanced diagnostic arthroscopy or nerve conduction studies may be used to confirm the result.
At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, our goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis so you can start the most effective treatment and confidently take the next step toward relief.
Non-Surgical Elbow Treatments at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Not all elbow injuries require surgery; many patients see significant pain relief and improved function with conservative treatment. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, our team of orthopaedic surgeons and physical therapists uses research-based, non-invasive techniques to manage conditions such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, tendinitis, tendinosis, cubital tunnel syndrome, and early-stage arthritis. Non-surgical options are often the first step in a personalized care plan designed to restore motion, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the elbow joint.
Physical Therapy
Targeted physical therapy is a critical component in treating many elbow disorders, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and control. Customized exercise programs are designed to stretch tight tendons, improve joint stability, and restore your range of motion after injury or overuse. Whether you’re recovering from trauma, managing chronic tendinopathy, or preparing for or recovering from elbow surgery, therapy can play a vital role in long-term success.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen, are commonly used to reduce swelling and relieve pain caused by inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, tennis elbow, or bursitis. Our elbow doctors may recommend these medications as part of your initial treatment plan to alleviate discomfort and help you return to normal activities more quickly.
Corticosteroid or Hyaluronic Acid Injections
For patients with persistent elbow pain, targeted injections can provide powerful, localized relief. Corticosteroid injections are often used to treat inflammatory disorders like golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, and bursitis, while hyaluronic acid injections may benefit those with early arthritis. These treatments are delivered precisely into the affected area and can significantly reduce symptoms when other therapies haven’t worked.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy uses your own blood to promote healing in damaged tissues. Concentrated platelets, rich in natural growth factors, are injected into the affected area of the elbow to stimulate tissue repair. This innovative approach has shown promise in treating chronic tendinosis, tendinitis, and ligament injuries without the need for surgery.
Elbow Bracing and Support Devices
Bracing and support devices can reduce stress on injured tendons and ligaments by limiting motion and allowing the elbow to heal. For conditions such as tennis elbow, cubital tunnel syndrome, or UCL injuries, these tools help patients manage pain, prevent the condition from worsening, and stay active during recovery. Our experienced staff will help you find the right device and show you how to use it safely and effectively.
Advanced Elbow Surgery Options in Missoula, Montana
When non-surgical treatment is no longer enough to relieve elbow pain or restore function, the experienced elbow surgeons at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic offer advanced surgical solutions to help patients regain comfort and mobility.
Using the latest techniques in orthopaedics and arthroscopy, our physicians treat complex elbow injuries, chronic tendinopathy, joint degeneration, and nerve disorders with a focus on long-term recovery and improved quality of life. Each procedure is tailored to your unique condition to ensure the best possible result.
Arthroscopic Elbow Surgery
Minimally invasive and highly effective, arthroscopic elbow surgery allows our orthopaedic surgeons to diagnose and treat a variety of elbow disorders through small incisions. Using a camera and specialized instruments, we can remove loose bodies, smooth damaged cartilage, and address inflammation related to arthritis, tendinitis, or trauma-related injuries. This technique typically results in faster recovery times and reduced postoperative pain.
Tendon Release or Repair Surgery
For patients with severe tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or chronic tendinosis, surgical release or repair of the affected tendons may be necessary. This procedure involves removing degenerated tissue and reattaching healthy tendon to the bone to restore function and reduce pain. Our orthopedic surgical team uses both open and minimally invasive techniques depending on the extent of the injury and the patient’s needs.
UCL Reconstruction ("Tommy John Surgery")
Common in throwing athletes and active individuals, UCL injuries can lead to instability and significant elbow pain. Tommy John surgery, also known as UCL reconstruction, involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon graft to restore stability. Our elbow surgeons have extensive experience performing this specialized procedure and work closely with each patient throughout recovery to ensure a successful return to activity.
Cubital Tunnel Release
When conservative treatment fails to relieve the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome, surgical nerve decompression may be the best option. During cubital tunnel release, the ulnar nerve is either freed from compression or repositioned to prevent future irritation. Surgeons perform this procedure to reduce numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness while protecting long-term nerve function.
Elbow Fracture Repair
Fractures in the elbow can affect bones such as the radial head, olecranon, or distal humerus, often requiring surgical intervention for proper healing. Our orthopaedic surgeons use plates, screws, or pins to realign the joint and stabilize the fracture. Early surgery helps prevent stiffness and improves the chances of a full functional recovery, especially after significant trauma.
Elbow Joint Replacement
For patients with severe arthritis, previous elbow injuries, or failed past surgeries, total elbow joint replacement can provide lasting relief. Damaged joint surfaces are replaced with metal and plastic components to restore motion and reduce chronic pain. This procedure is carefully performed by our elbow surgery team, with close attention to post-operative care and physical therapy to improve the patient’s range of motion and quality of life.
Elbow Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation with Our Missoula Elbow Surgeons
Recovery from an elbow injury or elbow surgery is a critical part of the healing process, and the experienced elbow specialists at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic are committed to guiding patients through every stage. Whether you’re recovering from tendinitis, a fracture, Tommy John surgery, or cubital tunnel syndrome treatment, our personalized rehabilitation plans reduce pain, restore mobility, and help you regain full function.
Post-operative care may include physical therapy, bracing, activity modifications, and progressive strength training tailored to your specific condition. Our dedicated team closely monitors your progress, making adjustments as needed to ensure safe and steady improvement. With access to advanced techniques and a full spectrum of orthopaedic support, our Missoula physicians help you return to work, sports, or everyday activities with greater confidence and less risk of re-injury.
What to Expect During Your Appointment at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
When you schedule an appointment with our trusted elbow surgeons in Missoula, Montana, you can expect thorough, compassionate, and personalized care from start to finish. Your visit begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, pain level, medical history, and any past elbow injuries or treatments. Our experienced orthopaedic surgeons will perform a physical exam and may order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs, to better understand the root of your condition.
Whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, tendinopathy, cubital tunnel syndrome, or early arthritis, we’ll explain your diagnosis in clear terms and walk you through all available treatment options. Our compassionate team is always here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you feel confident about your next steps.
Why Patients Across Montana Trust Our Elbow Specialists
Patients from Missoula and across Montana turn to Northern Rockies Orthopaedic because of our unwavering commitment to expert care, personalized attention, and lasting results. Our experienced elbow surgeons and board-certified orthopaedic physicians specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, from overuse disorders such as tennis elbow and tendinitis to complex trauma, fractures, and arthritis.
With advanced training in both non-surgical treatments and procedures like Tommy John surgery, arthroscopy, and cubital tunnel syndrome release, our team provides complete, modern elbow care backed by the latest research and techniques in orthopedics.
Patients appreciate our accessible Missoula location, dedicated staff, and coordinated approach that combines therapy, diagnostics, and surgery under one roof. We’re proud to serve Montana with integrity, experience, and a mission to improve outcomes for every individual who walks through our doors.
Additional Orthopedic Services at NRO in Missoula, Montana
In addition to expert elbow surgery and treatment, Northern Rockies Orthopaedic offers a comprehensive range of orthopedic care for patients throughout Montana. Our orthopaedic surgeons specialize in conditions affecting the shoulder and elbow, knee, hip, spine, foot, ankle, and wrist, treating everything from joint arthritis and trauma to sports-related injuries and overuse disorders.
Whether you’re dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, or degenerative joint disease, our skilled doctors provide the comprehensive medicine, diagnostics, and surgical solutions you need. With advanced procedures like joint replacement, arthroscopy, and minimally invasive techniques, our team helps you return to activity and enjoy a better quality of life. No matter where your pain originates, Northern Rockies Orthopaedic is here to help you find relief and confidence in your recovery.
Don’t Let Shoulder and Elbow Pain Hold You Back. Call the Orthopedic Specialists at NRO Today.
If you’re struggling with elbow pain, limited movement, or a recent elbow injury, don’t wait to get the expert care you need. The experienced elbow surgeons at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic in Missoula, Montana, are here to help you improve function, reduce pain, and get back to the activities you enjoy.
From non-surgical treatment to advanced elbow surgery, our dedicated team is ready to provide the support and guidance you deserve. Call (406) 728-6101 or schedule your appointment online today to meet with a trusted orthopaedic specialist and take the first step toward lasting relief.
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