Elbow
Precision for a Precise Joint
The elbow is a precise hinge. When it is injured, the simplest movements become difficult. Dr Handford brings fellowship-trained expertise to diagnose your condition accurately and build a clear path back to the life you want.
Conditions
Common Elbow Conditions We Treat
The elbow responds poorly to injury and stiffness. Dr Handford treats the full range of elbow conditions, from overuse tendinopathy to complex instability and arthritis, with the precision this joint demands.
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Often caused by repetitive gripping or wrist extension, this condition creates pain and tenderness on the outer elbow. Most cases respond well to non-surgical care, but persistent symptoms can be addressed with precise surgical release.
Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis)
Similar to tennis elbow but affecting the inner tendons. It flares with wrist flexion and gripping. Treatment starts with rest and physiotherapy, moving to surgery only when the pain refuses to settle.
Distal biceps tendon tears
A sudden pop and sharp pain often means the biceps tendon has torn from the forearm bone. This injury causes weakness in twisting the palm upward. Early surgical repair restores strength and the normal contour of the arm.
Elbow arthritis
Worn cartilage makes the elbow stiff and painful. It can follow an old injury or inflammatory disease. When daily tasks become too difficult, joint replacement or arthroscopic debridement can offer lasting relief.
Ulnar nerve entrapment (cubital tunnel syndrome)
The ulnar nerve gets pinched behind the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers. Night splinting helps some patients. A simple surgical release or transposition of the nerve can stop the damage from progressing.
Elbow instability
Ligament damage can leave the elbow feeling loose or giving way, particularly after a dislocation or fracture. Surgical reconstruction restores the secure hinge motion needed for daily activities and sport.
Elbow Surgery When You Need It
Surgery is recommended only when non-surgical treatment has not provided adequate relief. When it is the right step, Dr Handford's goal is to restore function with the most appropriate technique for your specific condition.
Elbow arthroscopy
A small camera and fine instruments are introduced through tiny incisions. This allows a clear view inside the joint to clean out loose bodies, smooth rough cartilage or release a stiff capsule without a large scar.
Ligament reconstruction
A torn ligament on the inner elbow can make the joint feel unstable and unreliable. A tendon graft is used to rebuild the damaged structure, restoring the secure hinge motion needed for throwing or heavy lifting.
Elbow joint replacement
For severe arthritis that has not responded to other treatment, a metal and polyethylene implant can replace the worn surfaces. This procedure relieves deep, aching pain and returns a functional range of motion for daily tasks.
Distal biceps tendon repair
When the biceps tendon tears from the forearm, early surgical repair reattaches it to the bone. Prompt treatment restores full strength for lifting and supination.
Your Journey
What to Expect at Your Elbow Consultation
Your first consultation
We start with a conversation. You will describe your pain and how it limits you, and Dr Handford will listen carefully before performing a focused physical examination of your elbow.
Diagnosis and planning
X-rays or an MRI may be taken in the rooms to confirm the diagnosis. You will then receive a clear, honest explanation of the findings and a personalised treatment plan, free of confusing jargon.
Treatment and recovery
Whether the path is physiotherapy or surgery, you will know exactly what to expect. A dedicated rehabilitation protocol guides you from the first day after treatment back to the movements you need.
Start your recovery today
A precise diagnosis is the first step. Book a personal consultation with Dr Handford to discuss your elbow condition and plan the way forward.
