Elbow Stiffness

Causes of Elbow Stiffness

Elbow stiffness can be caused by several factors, including:

• An elbow injury, causing a sprain, fracture, or dislocation
• Previous surgery on the joint
• Heterotopic ossification (excess bone formation in the joint after injury or surgery)
• Infection
• Inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Congenital problems

Symptoms of Elbow Stiffness

The main symptom is trouble moving your elbow. Some people may also experience pain, which can vary in intensity.

Diagnosis of Elbow Stiffness

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and check your elbow. They may also use X-rays or a CT scan to confirm what is causing the problem and to make sure it is not something else.

Treatments for Elbow Stiffness

There are different ways to treat elbow stiffness, such as:

Non-surgical treatments include:

• Continuous passive motion machines
• Physical therapy exercises
• Manipulation
• Serial casting of the joint
• Splinting
• Taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Botulinum toxin injections

Non-surgical treatments may not work for everyone. If these options do not help or if pain continues, your doctor may suggest surgery. Surgery to release a stiff elbow is usually considered when you have lost about half of your normal movement.

Often, surgeons use keyhole techniques, but sometimes a larger cut is needed. During surgery, the ulnar nerve may also be freed to prevent injury, especially if moving your elbow past a right angle is hard or painful.

Prevention Methods

You can often prevent elbow stiffness by taking care of your elbow and getting treatment early. Moving your elbow and starting therapy soon after an injury or fracture can help keep it flexible.

If a disease affects the joint, quick treatment can reduce damage and lower the risk of long-term stiffness.