Elbow Doctor in Anchorage, Alaska

When you have intense or persistent pain in your elbow, it can make everyday tasks — like lifting, gripping or even sleeping — difficult. Even minor discomfort in your elbow joint or forearm muscles can be a sign of something more serious. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine doctors are here to help you find answers and get the right treatment.

Expert Diagnosis & Comprehensive Treatment for Elbow Conditions

Our elbow specialists begin with a detailed physical examination and may use imaging like X-rays, CT scans or MRI to determine the source of your pain. Whether your condition is from overuse, trauma or a degenerative condition, we’ll create a care plan tailored to your needs. We emphasize conservative treatment first, which may include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Elbow and forearm bracing
• Activity modification

When surgery is necessary, we use advanced techniques — including minimally invasive elbow arthroscopy — to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

Elbow Conditions We Treat

We treat a full range of elbow conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Elbow instability
• Dislocations
• Fractures
• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Tendonitis
• Sprains and strains
• Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries
• Radial tunnel syndrome
• Osteochondritis dissecans
• Pinched nerves
• Inflammation or tears of the biceps tendon
• Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries
• Sports-related injuries

Advanced Elbow Surgery Options

When nonsurgical methods aren’t enough, our surgeons are trained in the latest procedures to restore elbow function:

• Elbow Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a small camera and tools inserted through tiny incisions. Ideal for treating stiffness, arthritis, loose bodies, and tendon injuries while minimizing scarring and recovery time.
• Ulnar Nerve Transposition: Used to treat cubital tunnel syndrome by repositioning the ulnar nerve to relieve pressure.
• UCL Reconstruction (Tommy John Surgery): Common in throwing athletes, this procedure repairs or reconstructs a damaged ulnar collateral ligament.
• MCL Reconstruction (Docking or Modified Jobe Technique): Used to repair the medial collateral ligament, often injured in sports like baseball, tennis or wrestling.
• Biceps Tendon Repair: A torn biceps tendon near the elbow often requires surgical reattachment to restore arm strength and function, especially supination (rotating the forearm).

Understanding Specific Elbow Conditions

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons where they attach to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. It doesn’t only affect tennis players — any repetitive arm motion can lead to this condition. Symptoms include pain that may come on gradually or suddenly, especially when gripping or lifting. Most patients recover with conservative care, but surgery may be necessary for severe cases.

Golfer’s Elbow

Similar to tennis elbow but affecting the inner part of the elbow, golfer’s elbow causes pain where the forearm tendons attach to the medial epicondyle. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, bracing, and in some cases, surgery.

Biceps Tendon Tears

The biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle to the elbow. Tears here are usually caused by a sudden injury and often result in complete detachment of the tendon from the bone. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and weakness, especially during forearm rotation. While some patients can adapt without surgery, those who need full arm strength often require surgical repair.

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries

MCL injuries typically result from valgus stress — force applied to the outside of the elbow, stressing the inner side. This is common in throwers, wrestlers and athletes in sports like tennis or water polo. While conservative treatment is effective for many, persistent or severe injuries may require surgical reconstruction.

When to See an Elbow Specialist

You should schedule an appointment with one of our elbow doctors if:

• Pain interferes with daily tasks or work
• Symptoms persist longer than a few days
• Pain disrupts sleep or worsens with activity
• Numbness, tingling or weakness radiates to the wrist, hand or shoulder
• The pain began after a traumatic injury like a fall or sports accident
• Home remedies like ice, rest or bracing are not helping — or making it worse

Why Choose AFOC to Treat Your Elbow

Our elbow specialists are certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and have extensive training in both surgical and nonsurgical treatments. We work with athletes and active individuals to restore function and reduce downtime, and we’ll partner with you to create a custom treatment and rehab plan that supports long-term recovery. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, we’re here to help you heal and get back to doing what you love.