Arthritis
What is Arthritis of the elbow?
Arthritis of the elbow (Osteoarthritis) occurs when the cartilage surface of the elbow is worn out or damaged. This can happen because of a previous injury (such as elbow dislocation or fracture) but is most commonly the result of a normal wearing away of the joint cartilage from age and activity.
Osteoarthritis usually affects the weight-bearing joints, such as the hip and knee. The elbow is one of the least affected joints because of its well-matched joint surfaces and strong stabilising ligaments. As a result, the elbow joint can tolerate large forces across it without becoming unstable.
Conservative treatments in the form of rest, pain relief medication, and sometimes corticosteroid injections are most often used to treat osteoarthritis of the elbow. Still, surgical intervention may be considered if the condition is severely developed or not responding to nonsurgical options.
Causes and Symptoms of Elbow Arthritis
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of elbow arthritis. Age-related wear and tear is the most frequent cause, particularly in individuals who have led physically active lives or engaged in repetitive upper limb movements. A history of trauma; such as fractures, dislocations, or repetitive strain injuries, can also accelerate cartilage breakdown and disrupt normal joint alignment, increasing the risk of arthritis.
Certain occupations and sports that involve forceful or repetitive elbow use may predispose individuals to early onset of arthritis. Additionally, ligament injuries or biomechanical instability in the elbow can alter the way forces are distributed within the joint, contributing to abnormal wear over time.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of elbow arthritis include persistent pain that worsens with movement or load-bearing tasks, and stiffness; especially after periods of rest, such as first thing in the morning.
Many patients notice a grinding, clicking, or snapping sensation within the joint, known as crepitus. As the condition progresses, it may become difficult to fully straighten or bend the elbow, which can interfere with daily tasks like reaching, lifting, or gripping. Swelling and joint locking may also occur in more advanced stages.
How Elbow Arthritis Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing elbow arthritis typically begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Dr Oscar Brumby‑Rendell will assess the joint for pain, swelling, range of motion, and mechanical symptoms. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, are used to confirm joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or deformity. In cases where soft tissue or more subtle damage is suspected, an MRI may be recommended.
Early diagnosis is important to guide treatment and prevent further deterioration of joint health.
Elbow Conditions
Here’s a guide to the most common elbow conditions that can cause pain, stiffness, or reduced function:
- Elbow Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis): Occurs when joint cartilage wears away due to age, overuse, or past injury (e.g., fracture or dislocation).
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own joint tissues, often affecting both elbows along with wrists, shoulders, and other joints.
- Tendinopathy (Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow): Inflammation or degeneration of tendon attachments due to overuse.
- Olecranon Bursitis (Elbow Bursa Inflammation): Also known as "student’s elbow" or "liquid elbow". Symptoms are swlling, redness, and pain at the tip of the elbow.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Compression): Compression of the ulnar nerve where it passes behind the inner elbow (“funny bone”).
- Cartilage Injuries (e.g. Osteochondritis Dissecans - OCD): Focal cartilage and bone lesions, typically in younger athletes.
Elbow Treatments
From Conservative to Surgical
Initial treatment for elbow arthritis usually focuses on non-surgical management. This may include activity modification to reduce joint stress, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain, and physiotherapy to maintain mobility and strength.
Corticosteroid injections can be highly effective for reducing inflammation during flare-ups. If conservative options do not provide lasting relief, surgical treatment may be considered.
Arthroscopic debridement; a minimally invasive procedure to remove loose fragments and smooth rough joint surfaces; can help in moderate cases.
For severe arthritis, elbow joint replacement may be recommended to restore function and eliminate pain. Dr Brumby‑Rendell will tailor the surgical approach to each patient's lifestyle and goals.
How Dr Oscar Brumby‑Rendell Can Help
With a focus on advanced shoulder and upper limb surgery, Dr Oscar Brumby‑Rendell is known for his precision, patient-centered care, and commitment to using the latest surgical technologies. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures, including elbow arthroscopy and joint replacement, and is skilled in 3D-guided surgical planning.
His holistic approach combines conservative management, surgical excellence, and post-operative rehabilitation to ensure every patient has the best chance of a full recovery. With clinic locations across Adelaide; including Dulwich, Bedford Park, and Stirling Hospital, he ensures convenient access to specialist care for patients across South Australia.
If you have a sports injury or other elbow condition, act now to make an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage and reduce the potential for a full recovery.
Call our friendly team on 08 7077 0101 to make an appointment or use our handy online booking service. Consultations are available in Dulwich (SA), Bedford Park (SA) and Stirling Hospital.
Ready to learn more?
Want to learn more about Arthritis? Watch our video about Shoulder Arthritis and replacement explained by Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell.
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