Elbow arthritis can quietly limit everyday activities long before pain becomes constant. Tasks like reaching, lifting or fully straightening your arm may start to feel stiff or uncomfortable. While the elbow is less commonly affected by arthritis than other joints, changes in cartilage over time or after an injury can lead to loss of motion and function if left untreated.
What Is Elbow Arthritis?
Elbow arthritis usually refers to osteoarthritis, a wear-and-tear condition that develops when the smooth cartilage covering the bones of the elbow joint becomes worn or damaged. This cartilage allows the elbow to bend and rotate smoothly. As it breaks down, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness and mechanical symptoms.
Although prior injuries like fractures or dislocations can increase the risk, elbow arthritis often develops as a result of age and long-term use.
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Elbow Arthritis Symptoms
Symptoms of elbow arthritis may begin subtly and progress over time. Common signs include:
- Elbow pain
- Loss of range of motion or stiffness
- A grating, clicking or locking sensation during movement
- Swelling around the joint (often in later stages)
- Weakness or difficulty fully straightening or bending the arm
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and small fingers in advanced cases
Mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching are often caused by loose fragments of cartilage or bone within the joint.
What Causes Elbow Arthritis?
Elbow arthritis can develop for several reasons, including:
- Normal wear and tear associated with aging and activity
- Previous elbow injuries, such as fractures or dislocations
- Ligament injuries that alter joint stability and loading
- Repetitive or heavy use, especially in physically demanding jobs or sports
- High-demand activities that place repeated stress across the elbow joint
Elbow arthritis can occur without a specific injury, but individuals who place greater demands on their elbows over time may experience earlier or more pronounced symptoms.
Elbow Arthritis Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, degree of joint damage and activity level.
Nonsurgical Treatment
Many patients find relief through conservative care, including anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy to maintain strength and mobility, corticosteroid injections and modifying activities to reduce joint stress.
Surgical Treatment
When nonsurgical treatments are no longer effective, surgery may be recommended. Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive option that can remove loose cartilage or bone fragments, smooth rough joint surfaces, and remove bone spurs.
Your surgeon will help guide this decision based on your specific case.
When to See a Doctor for Elbow Arthritis
If elbow pain, stiffness or loss of motion begins interfering with daily activities, it’s time to seek evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for more treatment options and may help delay progression.
Treat Elbow Arthritis at OrthoNebraska
Need relief from elbow arthritis in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
