Arthritis of the elbow
What is Arthritis of the elbow?
Elbow arthritis is loss of cartilage and formation of bone spurs within the elbow joint. It may be caused by previous injury, repetitive heavy loading, inflammatory disease, instability or age-related wear.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, loss of extension, catching, locking, swelling and reduced ability to push, lift or rotate the forearm. Some patients also develop ulnar nerve symptoms such as tingling in the ring and little fingers.
Diagnosis and imaging
X-rays assess joint space narrowing, spurs and loose bodies. CT is helpful when stiffness, deformity or bone spurs need detailed mapping. MRI may be used if soft tissue, ligament or early cartilage disease needs assessment.
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment may include activity modification, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication, bracing and injections. Maintaining functional range of motion and avoiding repeated high-load irritation are central goals.
Surgical treatment
Surgery depends on the pattern and severity. Options include arthroscopic or open debridement, removal of loose bodies, capsular release, treatment of ulnar nerve compression, interposition procedures or elbow replacement in selected advanced cases.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery varies widely. After debridement or release, early movement is important to reduce recurrent stiffness. After larger reconstructive procedures, lifting limits and protection are more substantial.
Arthritis of the elbow FAQs
Why does elbow arthritis cause stiffness?
Bone spurs, capsular tightness, loose bodies and joint surface wear can all block motion. The elbow is particularly sensitive to stiffness after inflammation or trauma.
How is arthritis of the elbow diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
Can elbow arthritis be treated with keyhole surgery?
Sometimes. Arthroscopy can help remove loose bodies, spurs and inflamed tissue in selected patients, especially when the joint is not globally destroyed.
Will I need surgery for arthritis of the elbow?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
Will I need an elbow replacement?
Elbow replacement is usually reserved for severe arthritis, often in lower-demand patients or inflammatory disease. Many patients are treated with less invasive procedures first.
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