Osteoarthritis of the Elbow
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Elbow: Managing Pain and Improving Function with Physiotherapy
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the elbow is a degenerative joint condition that results from the breakdown of cartilage within the elbow joint. While less common than OA in other joints like the knee or hip, elbow OA can significantly impact a person’s ability to perform everyday activities, particularly those involving arm movements such as lifting, gripping, or twisting. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers effective ways to manage symptoms and improve joint function. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we provide tailored treatments to help patients with elbow OA regain mobility and reduce pain.
What is Osteoarthritis of the Elbow?
Osteoarthritis is characterised by the gradual deterioration of cartilage—the smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. In the elbow, this cartilage breakdown leads to increased friction between the bones, causing pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. OA of the elbow typically develops from wear and tear over time but can also occur as a result of previous injuries, such as fractures or dislocations, or due to repetitive stress from activities like heavy lifting, manual work, or certain sports.
Symptoms of Elbow OA
The symptoms of elbow OA tend to worsen gradually and can significantly affect day-to-day activities. Common symptoms include:
Pain: Pain is usually felt in the elbow joint, particularly during movement or after periods of overuse. The pain may become more persistent over time.
Stiffness: The elbow may feel stiff, particularly in the morning or after rest. It may also be difficult to fully extend or bend the arm.
Loss of Range of Motion: As OA progresses, the range of motion in the elbow may decrease, making tasks such as reaching or lifting more difficult.
Swelling: Inflammation around the elbow joint can cause noticeable swelling and tenderness.
Clicking or Locking Sensation: Some individuals with OA of the elbow experience a catching, clicking, or locking sensation when moving the joint, due to rough cartilage surfaces or bone spurs.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is an effective way to manage elbow OA and prevent further deterioration. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our approach focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and supporting long-term joint health.
Pain Management: Our physiotherapists use techniques such as heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and soft tissue mobilisation to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the elbow joint.
Improving Flexibility and Mobility: We incorporate specific stretching exercises to maintain and improve the range of motion in the elbow. This helps counteract stiffness and enables smoother, more pain-free movements.
Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the elbow helps stabilise the joint and reduce stress on the affected area. Our physiotherapists guide you through exercises targeting the forearm, upper arm, and shoulder muscles, which all contribute to elbow function.
Activity Modification and Joint Protection: We provide advice on how to modify your daily activities to reduce stress on the elbow joint. This may include using ergonomic tools, adjusting lifting techniques, or avoiding certain repetitive motions.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on therapy, such as joint mobilisation, can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, making it easier to move the arm without pain.
Conclusion
While osteoarthritis of the elbow can be a painful and limiting condition, physiotherapy offers effective solutions for managing symptoms and improving elbow function. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we are dedicated to helping our patients with elbow OA maintain an active and pain-free lifestyle. If you’re experiencing elbow pain or stiffness, contact us today to learn how our tailored physiotherapy programs can help you manage your osteoarthritis and regain mobility.
