Elbow Arthritis

The elbow joint – a complex one consisting of three different bones is a common site for arthritis. This condition curbs all activities of daily living. Apart from severe pain and swelling, stiffness in the elbow caused due to arthritis makes it difficult to do even simple activities. Advanced condition lead to feeling of instability and weakness in the elbow. The types of arthritis that affect the elbow are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and post –traumatic arthritis. Imaging test help identify the condition. Conservative methods like heat and ice applications, anti-inflammatory drugs, usage of splints and braces and cortisone injections could be tried initially. However, at a stage when these methods are no longer effective, surgical procedure may be necessary. Elbow arthroscopy is very effective in treating the condition and also requires very little recovery time.