Ortho El Paso

04/12/2026

ELBOW PAIN AND STIFFNESS
A stiff elbow, also called an elbow contracture, is a condition where the elbow joint loses its normal range of motion. This often happens after an injury, surgery or due to arthritis.

Treatment usually focuses on improving movement and reducing pain through physical therapy, stretching and medication. Surgery is considered only if the condition does not improve over many weeks or months.

Symptoms may involve difficulty fully bending or straightening the arm. Pain during the middle range of movement and numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers is also a symptom. Limited ability to rotate the forearm is a sign to seek medical attention.

If you have been experiencing persistent pain of the elbow, call The Precision Hand Surgery Center at Ortho El Paso for a comprehensive consultation with our orthopedic surgeon and a treatment plan.
www.orthoep.com/hand-surgery-center

04/12/2026

FROZEN SHOULDER & MENOPAUSE

Frozen shoulder is a common shoulder condition for women ages 40 to 60. As estrogen levels decline, the body experiences increased inflammation which can affect joint health, causing connective tissue to become less flexible. Pre-menopausal/menopausal women are up to four times more likely to develop frozen shoulder.

When to See a Specialist:
Women may gradually experience an onset of pain, usually worsening at night and interfering with sleep. Eventually, the shoulder becomes "stuck" or severely limited in range of motion. It is advised to consult an orthopedic specialist if shoulder pain lasts longer than 6–8 weeks, significantly limits daily activities, or if the stiffness of frozen shoulder is progressing and happening more frequently.

If you are experiencing pain on the shoulder or episodes of frozen shoulder, contact Ortho El Paso for a thorough consultation and discussion for treatment.
www.orthoep.com

04/08/2026

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) shoulder injections are a regenerative, minimally invasive treatment using a patient's own concentrated platelets to treat chronic shoulder pain, such as rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, and arthritis. The procedure involves drawing blood, centrifuging it to concentrate growth factors, and injecting it into the damaged tissue to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Typically 1-3 sessions are needed, spaced 1-3 weeks apart. Low risk of side effects, primarily including temporary swelling, pain, or bruising at the injection site. Patients may experience a "flare-up" of soreness for a few days before long-term improvement begins. Studies have proven the injections are good for long-term (6-12 months) relief.
www.orthoep.com

04/06/2026

"Ready. Set. Action!"


NPHW 2026 encourages all Americans to engage in making health a priority, highlighting that good health does not happen by accident but through intentional action and policy.

04/02/2026

The offices of Ortho El Paso and The Precision Hand Surgery Center at Ortho El Paso will be closed on Good Friday through Easter Sunday. We will reopen Monday, April 6th. Wishing you a happy and safe Easter weekend.

04/01/2026

03/31/2026

TREATMENT FOR FRACTURES
A broken bone, also known as a fracture, can range from a simple crack to a complete break in the bone, and can occur due to trauma, falls, or even overuse.

Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. Treatment typically involves immobilizing the bone with a cast or splint, and sometimes surgery.

Treatment varies depending on the severity of the fracture and can include:

Immobilization: Casts, splints, or braces are used to hold the bone in place while it heals.

Pain Relief: Medications can help manage pain during the healing process. Ask your doctor what medication is best for you.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone and stabilize the fracture.

Physical Therapy: After healing, physical therapy can help restore strength and range of motion.

If you suspect a broken bone, first, prioritize getting medical help by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room. While waiting for medical help, apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and pain; wrap the ice in a cloth to avoid direct skin contact. If there's bleeding, control it with direct pressure and cover the wound with a clean dressing.

This is for informational purposes only. Consult your doctor or schedule a consultation with Ortho El Paso if you believe you have a broken bone.

www.orthoep.com
915-249-4000

03/30/2026

Honoring Drs. Justin S. Mitchell and Jason Vourazeris, esteemed orthopaedic surgeons at Ortho El Paso, on this National Doctors Day. We appreciate your exceptional medical care for the El Paso area and surrounding communities. Happy Doctors Day!
www.orthoep.com

03/30/2026

CHRONIC PAIN AND SOME MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES OFTEN INTERCONNECTED
Sadly, chronic pain can affect sleep, increase stress levels and contribute to depression. An estimated 35% to 45% of people with chronic pain experience depression. The American Psychiatric Association says, "People living with chronic pain are at heightened risk for mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders."

It's important to treat your joint pain so that it doesn't compound into more health issues. If your joint pain is getting worse and keeping you awake at night, you should see a doctor immediately. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, good nutrition and sufficient sleep, can also be helpful for both managing pain and improving mental health symptoms.

For shoulder pain, elbow pain, or hand pain, schedule a consultation with the orthopedic specialists at Ortho El Paso and The Precision Hand Surgery Center at Ortho El Paso. Call 915-214-4000 for an immediate appointment and treat your pain today.
www.orthoelpaso.com

03/28/2026

THANK YOU, RED CROSS
March is officially designated as Red Cross Month, a tradition starting in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to honor volunteers and donors who support humanitarian needs. This month, we celebrate everyday heroes who help during disasters, donate blood, and provide aid.

03/23/2026

“I can’t type another paragraph. It’s just too painful.” Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition of the hand and fingers caused by compression of a major nerve. It is commonly caused by repetitive motions over a long period like typing, parts assembly or the like. The pain felt by Carpal Tunnel is intense and hardly ever gets better on its own. Here’s what you can do about your symptoms of carpal tunnel: https://www.orthoep.com/blog/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-and-treatmentl