What Are the Signs You May Need Elbow Tendonitis Surgery?
Elbow pain can make even simple tasks, like lifting a coffee cup or typing on a keyboard, feel uncomfortable or even impossible. In many cases, elbow tendonitis can be managed with rest, therapy, and non-surgical treatments. But for some, the pain lingers, limits movement, and affects daily life. So how do you know when it’s time to consider elbow tendonitis surgery?
At the Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio, our fellowship-trained team specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions like elbow tendonitis. If conservative treatments haven't worked for you, this blog will help you recognize the signs that tendonitis elbow surgery may be the next step.
Understanding Elbow Tendonitis
Elbow tendonitis is inflammation or damage to the tendons that connect muscles to bone at the elbow joint. The two most common types are:
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Affects the outer part of the elbow
Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow): Affects the inner part of the elbow
Both are caused by overuse, repetitive motion, or strain, often from work, sports, or daily activity.
Most cases improve with:
Rest
Ice and anti-inflammatory medication
Bracing or activity modification
Injections (such as corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma)
But when pain persists after several months of non-surgical treatment, it may be time to talk to an elbow specialist in San Antonio about your options.
Signs You May Need Elbow Tendonitis Surgery
While not everyone with elbow tendonitis needs surgery, here are some key signs it might be necessary:
1. Pain Lasting 6 Months or More
If you've tried physical therapy, bracing, medications, and activity changes, but still have pain, it may indicate chronic tendon damage that won’t heal without surgical repair.
2. Loss of Strength
Do you notice weakness when gripping, lifting, or using your arm? Significant loss of strength is a red flag that your tendon may be torn or degenerating, and it may require surgical treatment to restore function.
3. Severe Pain That Interferes with Daily Life
When pain limits your ability to work, play sports, or enjoy everyday activities, even after trying conservative care, it’s time to consider advanced options like elbow tendonitis surgery.
4. Visible Swelling or Thickening Around the Elbow
Chronic tendon damage may cause swelling or a noticeable bump near the elbow joint. This can be a sign of tendon degeneration, scarring, or calcium deposits that might need surgical removal.
5. Failure of Non-Surgical Treatments
Surgery is usually only considered after all other treatments have been tried. If you've had injections, therapy, and medications without success, surgery may offer long-term relief.
What to Expect from Tendonitis Elbow Surgery
Surgery for elbow tendonitis usually involves:
Removing damaged or degenerated tendon tissue
Reattaching healthy tendon to bone
In some cases, cleaning bone surfaces to reduce irritation
The procedure can often be done on an outpatient basis and may use minimally invasive techniques. Recovery usually includes a short period of rest followed by physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion.
Get Expert Care from an Elbow Specialist in San Antonio
At The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio, we understand how frustrating ongoing elbow pain can be. Our team of fellowship-trained surgeons is experienced in both non-surgical and surgical treatment of elbow tendonitis. If you're wondering whether tendonitis elbow surgery is right for you, we’re here to help.
We offer advanced imaging, personalized care plans, and the latest surgical techniques to get you back to doing what you love, without pain.