Elbow Arthritis

Comprehensive treatment for elbow arthritis from conservative management to surgical intervention.

Understanding Elbow Arthritis

Elbow arthritis, while less common than arthritis in other joints, can significantly impact quality of life by causing pain, stiffness, and limited function. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive treatment for all forms of elbow arthritis.

Primary osteoarthritis of the elbow typically affects men over 50 who have performed heavy manual labor or participated in throwing sports. It causes bone spur formation that limits motion and may cause loose bodies in the joint.

Post-traumatic arthritis develops after elbow fractures or dislocations and can affect patients of any age. Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can also severely damage the elbow joint.

Causes & Risk Factors

Heavy manual labor over many years
Previous elbow fracture or dislocation
Throwing sports (baseball, javelin)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteochondritis dissecans
Hemophilia and other conditions

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of elbow arthritis include:

Pain with elbow movement
Loss of motion (unable to fully straighten or bend)
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Grinding or catching sensations
Locking episodes from loose bodies
Swelling around the elbow
Weakness affecting grip and lifting

Treatment Options

Treatment for elbow arthritis depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

Activity modification
Physical therapy for motion and strength
Anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid injections
Arthroscopic debridement (bone spur removal)
Elbow replacement for severe cases

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is elbow arthritis common?

Elbow arthritis is less common than hip or knee arthritis because the elbow is not a weight-bearing joint. However, it is common in certain populations, particularly manual laborers and throwing athletes.

Can elbow arthritis be prevented?

While not entirely preventable, risk can be reduced by avoiding repetitive heavy lifting, using proper technique in throwing sports, and seeking treatment promptly after elbow injuries.

What are the limitations after elbow replacement?

Elbow replacement patients have permanent lifting restrictions, typically 5-10 pounds, to protect the implant. This makes it more suitable for lower-demand patients.

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