Although the elbows are not weight-bearing joints, they are considered to be most important for the functioning of the upper limbs. The elbow is a complex joint that is made up of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the ulna (forearm bone), which are connected by a series of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The elbow joint is surrounded by a thin layer of cartilage that helps to cushion the bones and allow them to move smoothly. When this cartilage breaks down, elbow arthritis occurs and causes the bones to rub together.
Elbow arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and interference with the use of the arm. Arthritis in elbow symptoms often include:
Arthritis of the elbow is most common in older adults, but it can also develop in younger people who have had an injury to the elbow joint. The most common cause of the condition is wear and tear, although traumatic injuries, fractures, and dislocations can make you more susceptible to developing arthritis.
If you are experiencing symptoms of elbow arthritis, you should seek treatment from an orthopaedic elbow specialist like Dr. Brian J. Kelly as soon as possible. Dr. Kelly can diagnose and treat arthritis in the elbow to relieve your pain and improve your mobility.
If you’re ready to find relief, schedule your first appointment with Dr. Brian J. Kelly today.
Treatment for elbow arthritis often begins with conservative measures such as medications and steroid injections to relieve pain, activity modification like elbow arthritis exercises, and the use of splints. If these methods do not provide relief, your doctor may recommend surgical options like an elbow arthroscopy.
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to treat a variety of elbow disorders, including arthritis. The procedure is performed through tiny incisions to evaluate and treat several elbow conditions.
Elbow arthroscopy is commonly performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Here’s how it works:
At the end of the procedure, the surgical incisions are closed by sutures, and a soft, sterile dressing is applied. Your surgeon will place a cast or splint to restrict the movement of the elbow.
Dr. Brian Kelly is experienced in performing successful elbow arthroscopy procedures. If you need treatment for elbow arthritis, reach out to Dr. Brian Kelly for a customized treatment plan. With access to the best elbow surgeon near you, you are sure to find pain relief with Dr. Kelly.You should visit an orthopaedic specialist if you have persistent elbow pain that does not go away with rest, ice, and over-the-counter medication. You should also see a doctor if your elbow pain is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or joint instability.
Elbow arthroscopy is usually recommended for the following reasons:
Dr. Kelly will help you to decide what treatment works best for you.
After an elbow arthroscopy, a compressive stocking may be applied from the armpit to the hand once the dressing is removed to decrease pain and increase range of motion. Your orthopaedic specialist will prescribe pain medications to keep you comfortable, and physical therapy will be ordered to restore normal elbow strength. Your specialist may provide post-surgical instructions such as:
Dr. Brian Kelly will ensure that both your surgery and recovery go smoothly. You can rest assured that your orthopaedic surgeon will be by your side throughout the entire process.
If you are suffering from elbow pain or discomfort, reach out to an expert like Dr. Brian J. Kelly. Dr. Kelly is dedicated to helping his patients achieve long-lasting pain relief.
With experience in treating a variety of injuries and conditions of the elbow, shoulder, and knee, you will be in good hands with Dr. Brian Kelly. Contact us by phone at 412-262-7800, or visit our office at 725 Cherrington Pkwy, Suite 200, Moon Township, PA 15208.
Elbow arthritis treatment from the top orthopaedic surgeons in Pittsburgh.