Arthritis can affect almost any joint in the body. One of the joints most commonly affected is the elbow. This can cause pain and difficulty when engaging in activities that require movement of the elbow, negatively impacting a person’s quality of life.
Causes & Diagnosis
Elbow arthritis has a myriad of causes, including:
- Wear-and-tear from age
- Repetitive movement
- Previous elbow injuries
- Autoimmune conditions
- Genetic factors
- Infections that damage the joint's cartilage
One of our elbow specialists will be able to reliably diagnose you with elbow arthritis. They will do this by looking through your medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination to assess symptoms, range of motion, and stability. They will then use imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to identify bone and cartilage change.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of elbow arthritis include:
- Pain when bending or straightening the elbow
- Stiffness of the elbow
- Reduced range of motion in the elbow
- Swelling and tenderness of the elbow
- Clicking or grinding sounds when moving the elbow
- Weakness in the arm
If you are experiencing one or more of the above, it is quite possible that you are suffering from arthritis of the elbow.
Treatment
Fortunately, elbow arthritis can be treated. In most cases, treatment will be nonsurgical. Such treatments can include:
- Medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
- Corticosteroid Injections
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion
- Braces or splints to support the joint
In severe cases. Joint replacement surgery may be required. This involves replacing the elbow joint with artificial components. This is only used when other treatments have failed. One of our elbow specialists will be able to determine which treatment option is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many questions people have regarding elbow arthritis. Here, we will answer some of the most common ones.
What Does Arthritis in the Elbow Feel Like?
Elbow arthritis typically feels like a dull, aching, or throbbing pain that may radiate down the forearm or into the fingers. Your elbow will also feel stiff and be difficult to move, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.
What Is the Best Exercise for Arthritic Elbow?
The most effective exercise for elbow arthritis is typically a combination of gentle range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. This can include:
- Elbow Bends
- Forearm Turns
- Squeezing a stress ball
All of these help to increase mobility, build supporting muscle strength, and reduce stiffness. It is important to go slow and not overexert yourself.
What Is the Difference Between Arthritis and Tendonitis in the Elbow?
While similar symptoms may be present, arthritis and tendonitis of the elbow are two completely different conditions. Elbow arthritis is a joint condition, causing pain and inflammation by damaging the joint's cartilage. On the other hand, tendonitis is an inflammation of a tendon, the connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.