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Elbow Arthritis

Elbow Arthritis

Contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for Elbow Arthritis Relief

Arthritis is a condition that damages the cartilage around bones, causing inflammation in joints like the elbow. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, consider seeking treatment at South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for relief from elbow arthritis.

There are various types of arthritis, each with different causes and risk factors, including:

  • Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear on cartilage, common in active individuals, leading to bone-on-bone friction and pain.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Predominantly found in women, this genetic condition occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury, making the affected area sensitive and painful with movement.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Accompanies the skin condition psoriasis, causing flaking skin on the elbow along with arthritis symptoms.
  • Septic Arthritis: Caused by a bacterial infection that spreads to the joint through the bloodstream.
What Causes Elbow Arthritis?

Elbow arthritis can be caused by various factors, depending on the type:

  • Osteoarthritis: Often caused by the wear and tear on cartilage, leading to painful bone-on-bone contact.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: A genetic condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to inflammation and pain.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops following an elbow injury, causing long-term pain and sensitivity.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked with psoriasis, causing painful joints and skin flaking.
  • Septic Arthritis: Occurs when a bacterial infection enters the bloodstream and infects the joint.
Symptoms of Elbow Arthritis

The symptoms of elbow arthritis vary depending on the type, and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Loss of motion and movement
  • A grating sensation in the bones
  • Joints locking
  • Stiffness
  • Joint instability
  • Swelling

If the symptoms worsen, they may spread to other joints near the elbow, such as the wrist, hands, or fingers.

Elbow Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatments

If you are experiencing symptoms of elbow arthritis, your doctor will evaluate your condition to determine the best treatment approach. Mild forms of arthritis can be managed with:

  • Activity modification
  • Medications for pain relief
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Physical therapy

For severe cases of elbow arthritis, there are several surgical options to alleviate pain:

  • Arthroscopy: A procedure to remove loose fragments and tissue in the joint.
  • Prosthetic Joints: Inserting a prosthetic joint to replace the damaged one.
  • Tendon Repair: Repairing damaged tendons in the elbow.
  • Joint Fusion: Fusing the joint if a prosthetic joint is not a viable option.

If you’re suffering from elbow arthritis, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center today to schedule an appointment. Call us at (561) 241-4758 for expert care and treatment.

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