Elbow Conditions
About the Elbow
The elbow is a complex joint, that works as both a hinge (for flexing and extending of the arm) as well as a rotator of the forearm. Even subtle injuries can lead to misalignment of the elbow biomechanics, and symptoms like pain and stiffness. There are number of key structures in the elbow, which can be affected in this way.
The Cartilage – Osteoarthritis
In order for the elbow joint to move freely, the bony components of hinge (humerus above, radius and ulna below) and the rotator (humerus above, radius below) must have smooth movement. This friction free gliding is facilitated by cartilage – which covers the bone. Unfortunately, cartilage does not regenerate very well, and over time natural wear and tear results in thinning, and eventual loss of the cartilage in your elbow. This leads to bone on bone articulation, and is known as osteoarthritis. It can result in both pain and stiffness in the elbow. Sometimes, with severe osteoarthritis, small fragments of bone can become loose within the elbow joint, and these can lead to locking, catching and clicking. There are non-operative ways to treat this arthritis such as steroid injections and physiotherapy, as well as surgical treatments like joint replacement – either a hemi or total elbow replacement. Sometimes for loose bodies, a small keyhole (arthroscopic) procedure can be performed to remove the floating bits of bone as well.
The Nerve – Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
The nerve which controls most of the muscle function of the hand, as well as the sensation to the ring and little finger runs around the inside of the elbow. It is commonly compressed, and if left untreated can result in numbness or tingling, weakness and clumsiness of the hand and wasting. A decompression of this nerve (the ulnar nerve) via an open incision will help improve these symptoms of numbness and weakness, as well as prevent further irreversible loss of function.
The Capsule – Stiffness / Impingement
Of all the joints in the body, the elbow is most prone to developing stiffness. Even minor trauma or a few weeks in a sling without moving the elbow can lead to permanent stiffness. Osteoarthritis can also contribute to this. Whilst physiotherapy can help with range of motion, in severe cases surgery may be required to release the elbow joint to free up its arc of motion.