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Osteoarthritis Specialist for Elbow Pain in Lexington, KY

Osteoarthritis Elbow Treatment 
in Kentucky

Osteoarthritis of the elbow can gradually interfere with your ability to perform everyday movements, from lifting groceries to reaching overhead. As cartilage breaks down in the joint, pain, stiffness, and reduced motion often follow. For patients experiencing these symptoms, Bluegrass Orthopaedics offers specialized care focused on diagnosing and treating elbow osteoarthritis to restore function and improve quality of life.
Person holding their painful, inflamed elbow with redness indicating joint pain or injury.

Understanding Elbow Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when the protective cartilage covering the ends of bones wears down over time. While less common in the elbow than in weight-bearing joints, osteoarthritis of the elbow can still be extremely painful and debilitating. Aging, repetitive stress, previous injuries, or chronic joint instability typically cause this condition. Patients often report deep, aching pain, swelling, limited range of motion, joint locking or catching, and difficulty fully straightening or bending the elbow.

Evaluating Elbow Joint Damage

At Bluegrass Orthopaedics, we begin with a thorough evaluation to understand the extent of your arthritis and its impact on daily activities. A physical examination is followed by imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to assess the level of cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing. These diagnostics are crucial in determining the most effective treatment approach tailored to your specific needs.

Non-Surgical Elbow Treatment Options

Many patients with elbow osteoarthritis can effectively manage their symptoms with conservative care. Treatment often involves modifying activities, using anti-inflammatory medications, and undergoing targeted physical therapy. The goal is to reduce pain, preserve range of motion, and strengthen the muscles that support the elbow. Custom bracing may also be recommended to offload stress on the joint and provide stability during movement.

When Elbow Surgery Becomes Necessary

If nonsurgical treatments are no longer effective and elbow osteoarthritis severely limits daily function, surgical intervention may be the next step. Surgical options depend on the extent of the joint damage and the patient's goals. For some, elbow arthroscopy—a minimally invasive procedure to remove bone spurs, loose fragments, and inflamed tissue—can offer relief. In more advanced cases, particularly in older adults or those with significant cartilage loss, total elbow replacement surgery may be recommended.

Elbow Restoring Comfort and Movement

Bluegrass Orthopaedics combines expert surgical care with personalized rehabilitation to help patients achieve the best possible outcome. After any elbow procedure, our physical therapy team helps guide recovery with exercises focused on flexibility, strength, and function. Our collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives the ongoing support and clinical expertise needed to regain motion and return to meaningful activities.

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Very patient oriented.

Anonymous

Surgery Dr Harrod was great and explained everything in so much detail. I felt like he was truly concerned with my well being. I would definitely recommend.

Anonymous

Awesome doctor. Stopped my pain with surgery.

Anonymous

Dr. Denehy is 5 stars for sure- Skilled surgeon, interested and caring I would highly recommend him

Ann Banks

Did a great job on my knee replacement, my scarr looks great too. What i really loved was he goes the extra mile if needed in certain situations as i needed with physical therapy.

Sharon m

I would go back any time I need to. Wouldn't look any where else.

Larry Lowe

First time visit. Dr. Christensen very professional. Staff very courteous. Would definitely recommend.

Anonymous

In addition to being an excellent physician, Dr. Harrod possesses two other qualities that put him high on my list. He actually listens. That sounds like a simple thing, but I've found it to rare. And he spends time with you based on... In addition to being an excellent physician, Dr. Harrod possesses two other qualities that put him high on my list. He actually listens. That sounds like a simple thing, but I've found it to rare. And he spends time with you based on your needs, not his schedule. The combination of those two things makes you feel like the most important person in the room, and it shows he truly cares. I would recommend him with no reservations whatsoever.

James Robertson

Finally a doctor who takes his time to listen and discuss your condition in understandable terminology.

Cori M

Dr. Christensen did a right partial knee replacement for me 9/25/19 and a left partial knee replacement 10/23/19 and I have been happy with the results. I was pleased with the care I received at Bluegrass Orthopedic Surgery Center. I... Dr. Christensen did a right partial knee replacement for me 9/25/19 and a left partial knee replacement 10/23/19 and I have been happy with the results. I was pleased with the care I received at Bluegrass Orthopedic Surgery Center. I would recommend Dr. Christensen.

Phyllis Inman

Without reservation, I highly recommend Dr. Christensen and his staff! It is reassuring to have a doctor hold your hand and pray specifically for you just before he does surgery! From my very first emergency appointment, through surgery... Without reservation, I highly recommend Dr. Christensen and his staff! It is reassuring to have a doctor hold your hand and pray specifically for you just before he does surgery! From my very first emergency appointment, through surgery and follow-up I’ve had exemplary care! Everyone in Dr. Christensen’s office cared about me! Matt was my Physician Assistant, he is amazing ! Brittany and Tammy Fugate helped to make my knee replacement a positive experience!!! I am Thankful!

Donna

Dr. Christemsen did a total knee replacement on Oct. 2007. I had surgery on Mon., got out of hospital on Thurs. and was at our church yard sale on Sat., without a cane or walker. He had prayer for me before surgery. I thank GOD for the... Dr. Christemsen did a total knee replacement on Oct. 2007. I had surgery on Mon., got out of hospital on Thurs. and was at our church yard sale on Sat., without a cane or walker. He had prayer for me before surgery. I thank GOD for the knowledge and talent that HE has given to Dr. Christensen. I think most importantly you need to do the therapy as I think it helps you to have a speedy recovery. I'm now going to have surgery on my other knee soon. I highly recommend him and his staff.

Mitzi

Dr. Favetto performed surgery on my left hand due to a tendon that snapped due to RA. The surgery went great and the tendon repaired. After great therapy at BGO and follow up visits with Dr. Favetto I have full use once again of my... Dr. Favetto performed surgery on my left hand due to a tendon that snapped due to RA. The surgery went great and the tendon repaired. After great therapy at BGO and follow up visits with Dr. Favetto I have full use once again of my hand. I have nothing but great things to say about BGO, from the surgical staff to the rehab department. Everyone is very friendly, caring and Dr. Favetto takes the time to answer any questions I have. Great place and I would highly recommend it for anyone .

Anonymous

Dr Denehy was very professional and explained what he was doing and how the treatment would affect my condition. He was straight forward on what the future might hold regarding treatment and what time frame we were looking at. I would... Dr Denehy was very professional and explained what he was doing and how the treatment would affect my condition. He was straight forward on what the future might hold regarding treatment and what time frame we were looking at. I would highly recommend him

Nancy Moore

Wonderful, caring, conservative doctor.

Roger Richardson

Trusted Elbow Care
in Central Kentucky

Living with elbow pain from osteoarthritis doesn't have to be your new normal. Bluegrass Orthopaedics is dedicated to helping patients achieve long-term relief through customized treatment strategies that reflect the latest advancements in orthopedic care. Whether your goal is to return to work, improve mobility, or simply live without constant discomfort, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence. Reach out to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Owen McGonigle, sports medicine specialist, speaking in a Bluegrass Orthopaedics video interview.

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