Joe A Shaw PA-C - 10/12/2008

Question
Hi, Im a 41yr woman, i have had several operations on my elbow due to broken radius when i was 12!  My most recent op was febraury '08, for unlar nerve entrapment.  the nerve was un-tethered and repositioned, i also have moderate/severe arthritis of the elbow.  The past few months, i have been experiencing increasing pain on the inner side of the elbow, it is a horrid burning pain and it radiates from the elbow down the forearm slightly.  Medication isn't easing it, it hurts when im resting and on movement.  Do you think it could have anything to do with the ulnar nerve transposition op or something new?
Thanks Sam

Answer
Samantha,
It could have something to do with the op. You may have adhesion formation from the surgery which has attached or formed around the nerve. Adhesions can be a complication from any type of surgery, as the tissue/skin grows back 'internal scars' form..like a scar on the skin. Not a whole lot to do with that..but a physical therapist may be able to help.

It could be medial epicondylitis..golfers elbow,(you don't have to play golf) but certain ways you use your forearm, elbow can cause it.
Try ice wrap 3 x day 15 mins/ followed by moist heat 5-10 min, then range of motion (move elbow back and forth etc) try biofreeze or orthogel, or ibuprofen cream and Rx nsaid. And a elbow night splint can help keep it in a neutral position so the elbow/nerve is not being crimped all night.
If not improving in 2-3 wks go back to your ortho


http://www.carpal-tunnel-symptoms.com/night-splints.html
http://www.carpal-tunnel-symptoms.com/pain-relief-creams.html