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Elbow Arthritis

What is the Elbow Joint?


The elbow is a hinge joint where the humerus (upper arm bone) meets the radius and ulna (forearm bones). Smooth cartilage covers the joint surfaces to allow pain-free movement.


What is This Condition?


Elbow arthritis happens when the cartilage wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased motion. It may be primary (age-related wear-and-tear) or secondary (from injury, rheumatoid disease, or prior surgery).


What are the Symptoms?


  • Stiffness and loss of motion, especially difficulty straightening the elbow

  • Pain that worsens with activity or at the end range of motion

  • Swelling and occasional catching or locking if loose bodies are present

  • Grinding or creaking sensation in the joint


What Causes It?


  • Natural wear-and-tear with aging

  • Prior elbow fractures or injuries

  • Repetitive heavy use of the elbow

  • Inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)


How is It Diagnosed?


  • Exam: limited range of motion, pain with motion

  • X-rays: show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or loose bodies

  • CT/MRI: sometimes used for surgical planning


How is It Treated?


Non-surgical:


  • NSAIDs and activity modification

  • Physical therapy to maintain motion

  • Cortisone injections for pain relief


Surgical:


  • Arthroscopic or open removal of bone spurs/loose bodies to improve motion

  • Partial or total elbow replacement in severe cases


Learn more from AAOS (OrthoInfo):

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-elbow/

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