About elbow arthritis
The elbow is a hinge and pivot joint that lets you bend, straighten, and turn your forearm. Elbow arthritis develops when the cartilage lining these joint surfaces wears down, which leads to pain, stiffness, and sometimes bone spurs or loose fragments inside the joint.
Elbow arthritis is less common than knee or hip arthritis and often follows a past fracture, dislocation, or years of heavy use. Many people lose some ability to fully straighten the arm, which can affect lifting and reaching.
Common symptoms
- Aching in the elbow, especially with use
- Stiffness and trouble fully bending or straightening the arm
- Pain at the ends of motion
- Clicking, grinding, or locking
- Swelling after activity
Common causes and risk factors
- A prior elbow fracture or dislocation
- Years of heavy manual labor or throwing
- Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Age-related joint wear
How we diagnose it
Dr. Chen evaluates motion, strength, and where pain appears in the range. Ultrasound at the exam table shows joint fluid, lining irritation, bone spurs, and the nearby tendons and ulnar nerve, which can be affected by arthritis. X-rays show the joint space and spurs, and CT or MRI is used when loose bodies or surgical planning are in question.
How Propel treats elbow arthritis
Treatment starts with keeping the elbow moving and strong. A progressive program for the arm and shoulder helps protect the joint, and changes to grip and lifting technique reduce flares. A guided corticosteroid injection can calm a painful flare.
For ongoing pain, Dr. Chen offers ultrasound-guided PRP, which does not rebuild cartilage but may ease pain and improve function. Joint denervation or nerve modulation can quiet the nerves carrying pain from the elbow. If the elbow locks from loose fragments or motion loss limits daily life, we help coordinate a surgical referral.
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Questions about elbow arthritis
- Can elbow arthritis cause numbness in my fingers?
- Yes. Swelling or bone spurs from elbow arthritis can irritate the ulnar nerve, causing numbness in the ring and small fingers. Ultrasound and nerve testing can check for this.
- Will exercise make elbow arthritis worse?
- Well-chosen exercise usually helps. Strength and motion work supports the joint, and your program can be adjusted to avoid the positions that cause the most pain.
- What is joint denervation for the elbow?
- Joint denervation treats the small sensory nerves that carry pain from the elbow joint. It may reduce pain for people who are not ready for or not good candidates for surgery.