Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 6/9/2011

Question
My left elbow started to be painful.  For examples, I cannot bend my elbow trying to touch my hand to my shoulder all the way.  It goes 3/4 of the way.  I thought it was the way I slept one night because it was so stiff the next day.  It went away and then came back.

It hurts somewhat at the bend of the arm and feels sore.  Also, when I was 6 years old I broke my left arm. I am now in my early 60's. Do you think this could be helped by a chiropractor?

Thanks,

Pat

Answer
Pat,

Thanks for your question. In order to determine what course of treatment would be best for you, it is first necessary to determine the exact cause of your elbow problem. Various muscular problems as well as degenerative changes (arthritis) can can elbow pain and limited movement; a musculoskeletal-based chiropractor would be a good place to start. X-rays may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis or to rule out another problem. If you do not respond to conservative therapy after a few weeks, an MRI might then be necessary to image the soft tissues, including muscles and ligaments. You can also see your primary care physician for appropriate medication, if necessary.
Any non-musculoskeletal problem (less commonly, these might include infection or tumor) would be managed by a medical physician.

I hope that this helps to answer your question.