Regain movement, reduce pain, protect your joint
What is elbow arthritis?
Elbow arthritis describes several conditions that damage the smooth joint surfaces or lining of the elbow. Common types are:
Type | Typical cause | Key feature |
Osteoarthritis (OA) | Lifelong “wear-and-tear”, past injury, heavy manual work | Bone spurs, end-range pain, loss of full straightening |
Post-traumatic arthritis | Previous fracture, dislocation or ligament tear | Symptoms often appear years after the accident |
Inflammatory arthritis (e.g. rheumatoid, psoriatic, gout) | Immune system attacks the joint or urate crystals collect | Warmth, swelling, morning stiffness, possible hand involvement |
All forms lead to pain, stiffness and reduced reach. Early diagnosis limits long-term damage.
Why does it happen?
Risk rises with age, previous elbow injuries, repetitive overhead work, some genes and— for rheumatoid arthritis— being female. Inflammatory types result from immune over-activity; OA and post-traumatic arthritis reflect mechanical overload or cartilage loss.
Recognising the symptoms
- Persistent ache made worse by pushing or lifting
- Difficulty fully straightening or bending the arm
- Grating, catching or locking sensations
- Swelling and, occasionally, numbness in the ring and little fingers (pressure on the ulnar nerve)
Seek urgent assessment if pain is severe, the joint is hot and red, or you cannot move the elbow after an injury.
How is it diagnosed?
- Clinical examination for tenderness, motion loss and nerve symptoms.
- X-ray to show joint-space narrowing, bone spurs and loose fragments.
- Ultrasound or MRI if soft-tissue detail is needed.
- Blood tests (ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor) when inflammatory arthritis is suspected.
- Nerve-conduction studies for persistent tingling.
Treatment options
Conservative care (first-line)
- Activity modification and workplace or sport technique review
- Regular analgesia: paracetamol, NSAID tablets or gels
- Physiotherapy: stretching, strengthening, ice or heat
- Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma injections for short-term relief
- Night or activity splints if gripping causes flare-ups
Surgical care (when pain or stiffness persists)
- Arthroscopic debridement & capsular release – key-hole removal of spurs or loose bodies; rapid recovery if at least 90 ° of motion remains.
- Open debridement / column procedure – larger incision to address severe contracture or ulnar-nerve compression.
- Ulnohumeral distraction interposition arthroplasty – biological spacer for younger, high-demand patients with end-stage disease.
- Total elbow arthroplasty (replacement) – reserved for low-demand adults, usually over 65 years; lifelong lifting limit of 5–10 lb.
Living well and preventing progression
- Keep the joint moving gently every day—“motion is lotion”.
- Maintain a healthy weight and stop smoking.
- Strengthen shoulder and wrist muscles to share load.
- Use padded rests or supports if leaning on desks or machinery.
- Choose tools with larger handles to reduce grip strain.
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in oily fish, fruit and vegetables.
Clinical Pearls / Key Points
- End-range rather than night pain suggests OA.
- Loss of full extension may hide early arthritis—compare arms.
- The radial head provides 30 % of valgus stability; preserve it in surgery.
- Ulnar-nerve symptoms often improve once swelling settles.
- Early DMARD therapy slows rheumatoid disease and protects the elbow.
Patient FAQs
Is elbow arthritis common?
It is far less common than hip or knee arthritis but can affect anyone with a past elbow injury or heavy repetitive work.
Will I need an operation?
Most people improve with exercise, tablets and simple injections. Surgery is considered only when daily tasks remain difficult.
How long does recovery take after arthroscopy?
Light use usually returns within two weeks; full movement may take three months with physiotherapy.
Can weather make it worse?
Some notice more stiffness in cold, damp conditions, although studies are inconclusive. Gentle warming and movement often help.
Call to Action
If you have pain, book an appointment to be reviewed by Prof Imam or another member of our specialist team at The Arm Clinic. Early specialist care helps prevent long-term issues. Visit www.TheArmDoc.co.uk or book your consultation today. Phone: 020 3384 5588 | Email: Info@TheArmDoc.co.uk
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for individual guidance on your condition and treatment options.
This page was last clinically updated in May 2025