Elbow Surgeon Sarasota, FL
Christopher L. Dillingham, M.D.
(941) 378-5100
5831 Bee Ridge Rd
Suite 300
Sarasota, FL 34233
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Specialties Include
- Tennis Elbow
- Golfer's Elbow
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Elbow Fractures
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Laser Therapy
- Cutting Edge Physical Therapy
Fellowship-Trained Elbow and Upper Extremity Surgeon
Dr. Christopher Dillingham is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who treats a wide range of elbow conditions at leading hospitals and surgical centers in Sarasota, Florida. His fellowship in Hand, Shoulder, and Arm Surgery at the University of Florida provided advanced training in the full spectrum of upper extremity care, giving him the expertise to treat everything from overuse injuries to complex fractures and nerve disorders of the elbow.
Common Elbow Conditions We Treat
The elbow is a deceptively complex joint. It handles the mechanical demands of thousands of arm movements every day bending, straightening, rotating while also serving as the conduit for the nerves and tendons that control hand and wrist function. When something goes wrong at the elbow, the effects are often felt throughout the entire arm.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is one of the most common causes of elbow pain, affecting athletes and non-athletes alike. It develops when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated or damaged from repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting motions. Treatment typically begins with rest, physical therapy, bracing, and regenerative treatments such as PRP therapy. When conservative care does not provide lasting relief, Dr. Dillingham offers surgical options to remove damaged tissue and restore function.
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow causes pain on the inside of the elbow and is triggered by repetitive wrist flexion and forearm rotation. Like tennis elbow, it is an overuse condition that often responds to conservative treatment. Dr. Dillingham evaluates each patient individually and recommends surgery only when non-surgical options have been exhausted.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through the narrow space on the inside of the elbow. This can cause numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers, weakness in grip strength, and pain along the inner elbow. Treatment may include activity modification, splinting, and nerve gliding exercises. When symptoms persist, Dr. Dillingham may perform surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Elbow Fractures
Fractures of the elbow can result from falls, direct impacts, or sports injuries. Depending on the location and severity of the fracture, treatment may range from immobilization and rehabilitation to surgical fixation with plates, screws, or pins. Dr. Dillingham evaluates each fracture carefully to determine the approach that will restore the best possible function and stability.
Elbow Arthritis
Arthritis of the elbow can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain that limits everyday activities. Dr. Dillingham offers conservative management including medication, therapy, and injections, as well as arthroscopic surgery for patients with loose bodies, bone spurs, or scar tissue that restricts motion.
Elbow Arthroscopy
Dr. Dillingham performs arthroscopic surgery of the elbow to diagnose and treat conditions including loose bodies, scar tissue, cartilage damage, and chronic stiffness. Elbow arthroscopy uses small incisions and a camera to allow treatment with less tissue disruption and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Our Approach to Elbow Treatment
Dr. Dillingham’s approach begins with a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. He explores conservative treatment options first, including physical therapy, bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, and regenerative treatments such as PRP therapy. Surgery is recommended only when non-surgical care has not provided adequate improvement. When a procedure is necessary, he uses the least invasive technique that will produce a durable result.
Get Answers About Your Elbow Pain
If you are experiencing elbow pain, stiffness, numbness, or weakness, Dr. Dillingham can help determine the cause and recommend the right treatment plan for your situation.