Elbow Arthritis Treatments
How do you treat Elbow Arthritis?
Elbow arthritis is initially treated non operatively with:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
- Activity and lifestyle modification
- Intra-articular cortisone injections
If this fails or the arthritis progresses you may need surgery. This is usually an elbow arthroscopy or an Elbow replacement.
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What is an Elbow Arthroscopy?
An Elbow arthroscopy is a “keyhole” operation which is performed for multiple reasons, one of which is elbow arthritis. It is often a day procedure in which the elbow joint is debrided of bone spurs, loose bodies and cartilage flaps which usually occur with mild to moderate arthritis. An Elbow arthroscopy can help improve pain and stiffness with elbow arthritis. This is ideal for young and middle aged patients which symptomatic elbow arthritis.
What is an Elbow Replacement (Elbow Arthroplasty)?
An Elbow Replacement is an operation in which the worn-out surfaces of the elbow are replaced with two or three prosthetic implants replicating the hinge joint of the elbow. This is a good operation for older patients with severe elbow arthritis. Elbow replacements are also used for severe elbow fractures in older patients. Elbow replacements usually require a 1-2 night stay in hospital and a sling for 2 weeks.
This replacement provides very good pain relief and provides good range of motion to the elbow.
