Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Arthritis in the Elbow
Elbow arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced movement in the elbow joint. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones wears down over time or becomes damaged. This can lead to inflammation, bone-on-bone contact, and difficulty with everyday activities that involve bending, lifting, or rotating the arm.
There are several types of arthritis that can affect the elbow. The most common are osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joint lining. Post-traumatic arthritis can also develop after a previous injury such as a fracture or dislocation.
Symptoms of elbow arthritis may include aching or sharp pain, swelling, stiffness, limited range of motion, and a grinding or locking sensation. These symptoms may worsen with activity or prolonged use of the arm.
Diagnosis is made through a physical exam and imaging such as X-rays or MRI to assess cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, or bone spurs. In some cases, fluid from the joint may be tested to rule out infection or other inflammatory conditions.
Treatment depends on the severity of the arthritis and how much it affects daily life. Nonsurgical options may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, joint injections, or activity modification. If symptoms continue to limit function, surgical procedures, ranging from joint cleaning (arthroscopy) to elbow replacement, may be considered.
At Slocum, our orthopedic team offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for elbow arthritis, with a focus on relieving pain and helping patients return to daily activities with improved comfort and mobility.