Elbow Contracture
What is Elbow Contracture?
Elbow contracture is a condition in which the elbow becomes stiff, limiting its range of motion. It often occurs as a complication after elbow surgery, fractures, dislocations, or burns.
The normal functional range of motion for the elbow is 30 to 145 degrees. An elbow is considered contracted or stiff when its extension or flexion is reduced by 30 degrees or more. Flexion contractures exceeding 45 degrees can significantly interfere with daily activities such as bathing and eating.
Symptoms of Elbow Contracture
Common symptoms of elbow contracture include:
- Stiffness of the elbow
- Inability to fully extend or flex the arm
- Typically, there is no associated pain
Causes of Elbow Contracture
Elbow contracture is caused by the following:
- Elbow trauma
- Elbow surgery
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Loose bodies
- Osteophytes or bone spurs
- Malunions of fractures
- Joint infection
- Burns
Diagnosis of Elbow Contracture
Elbow contractures should be assessed by an orthopedic surgeon for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The evaluation typically includes a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and nerve conduction studies.
Treatment options for Elbow Contracture
Conservative Treatment for Elbow Contracture
Conservative treatment options for elbow contracture can successfully treat most elbow contractures of less than 6 months’ duration. These options will be based on your condition and may include the following:
- Physical therapy
- Splinting
- Casting
- Manipulation
Surgical Treatment for Elbow Contraction
If conservative treatments, including consistent physical therapy, are unable to improve an elbow contracture, surgery may be recommended.
Capsular release is a procedure used to relieve stiffness caused by contracture. It can be performed through a traditional open incision or arthroscopically using smaller incisions. Arthroscopic capsular release is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a hospital under general or regional anesthesia.
Your surgeon will review the options and determine the most suitable surgical approach for your condition.
For More Information
Post-Operative Care After Elbow Capsular Release
Your surgeon will give you instructions to follow depending on the type of repair performed. Common postoperative care following elbow contracture release includes the following:
- Initially, you will have a lightly wrapped, bulky bandage from your shoulder to your hand to minimize swelling and bleeding.
- A catheter will be placed and left in the axillary or armpit area for administering a brachial plexus block anesthetic for pain relief.
- Continuous passive range of motion will begin within a day after surgery.
- Elevate the elbow on a pillow and apply ice packs over the dressing to help reduce swelling.
- Keep the incisions clean and dry. You may shower once the dressings are removed unless otherwise directed by your surgeon.
- You will be given specific instructions regarding activity and rehabilitation. You must comply with physical therapy directions for the best outcome from your surgery.
- Eating a healthy diet and quitting smoking will promote healing.
Complications After Elbow Capsular Release
Arthroscopic elbow capsular release is generally a safe procedure with a low risk of major complications. However, possible risks include infection and nerve injury.
What Patients Are Saying
Patients across Houston trust Dr. Omar for expert care, clear communication, and exceptional results.
