Arthritis is a group of diseases that cause pain and inflammation in one more joints and there is limited movement and damage to the joints. It can be due to damage of the cartilage, problems of the immune system of the body, infections and dietary imbalances.
The elbow is a high-risk joint in the upper extremity. The elbow is the link that helps bring the hands to the face, brushing the teeth or reaching for a shelf to get an object. Once this joint is affected by arthritis it can be a dangerous condition.
Elbow arthritis can cause pain, swelling and reduced range of motion and the functional use of the hand is reduced.
Causes
- Elbow arthritis can be caused by pushing the body from a chair, pushing the door to open and lifting or carrying an object, places plenty of stress on the elbow.
- An extra unexpected stress placed on the elbow when using a walker or a cane.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Limited movement
- Locking of the elbow or catching sensations from loose bodies in the elbows
- Unstable and weak joints
- Stiffness of the elbow
Treatment of elbow arthritis
- Apply a warm compress and ice pack on the affected area to help loosen the joints and relax the stiffness of the muscle usually in the morning. Another alternative is to take a shower in the morning or simply place a warm compress first thing in the morning. Ice helps lessen swelling at the end of the day especially after strenuous activities.
- Take the prescribed over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Massage the affected elbow helps improve the range of motion and helps lessen pain, swelling and discomforts.
- Wear resting splints for the affected elbow during night and when performing activities to help lessen movement of the area.
- Seek the help of a physical therapist for some exercises for elbow arthritis. Exercises help with the proper circulation of the joint and provide nourishment to the cartilage and helps minimize inflammation and increases the flexibility of the joint. Movement of the elbow helps to strengthen the joint of the muscles, ligaments and tendons so that they can absorb shock and maintain the stability and alignment of the joints.
Exercises
- Perform elbow bend by holding the hand in front, then bend the elbow slowly upwards until the hand touches the shoulder. Remain in that position for 10 counts and release and then repeat the procedure at least 3 times.
- Perform wrist flex by holding the hand in front then slowly bend the wrist upwards and remain in that position for a few seconds and release. Repeat the procedure at least 20-25 times. Performing these exercises regularly helps lessen pain and stiffness and improve the range of motion of the affected elbow joint.
FACT CHECK
https://www.healthline.com/health/elbow-osteoarthritis
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-elbow/
https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/where-it-hurts/elbow-pain/