For most people, arthritis pain in the elbow occurs not only when they bend their elbow, but also when they straighten the elbow as well.
When it comes to pain in the elbow, some of the more common causes of this discomfort are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and even an injury related pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the joint linings or synovia that slowly destroys the bones and soft tissues.
Osteoarthritis can affect the cushioning on the ends of the bones that enables them to move smoothly. When the joint and the cartilage is destroyed, the bones begin to rub against each other and it is this action that creates a bone on bone pain. Trauma or injury to the elbow can also damage the cartilage of the joint that, in time, can lead to the development of arthritis in the injured joints.
Arthritis Elbow Pain Symptoms
- First symptom you typically will see is pain. This may be primarily on the outer side of the joint in the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis. It usually gets worse as you rotate and extend your forearm. RA is generally symmetrical in that it occurs on both sides of the body, while osteoarthritis typically happens on one side or the other.
- Swelling – Is a more common symptom with rheumatoid arthritis
- Instability – This make things difficult for you to do normal daily activities because the joint is not stable and has the tendency to give way, putting you at risk for a fall and even more damage.
- Lack of full movement – Not able to extend and bend the elbow in a full range of motion manner
- Locking – This generally happens more frequently with osteoarthritis and it can be rather painful
- Stiffness – This particularly happens with arthritis that develops as a result of an injury
- Pain in both elbows – Is a sign of the possible onset rheumatoid arthritis
Arthritis pain in the elbow can be treated both non-surgically and surgically. Naturally you will want to start with the least aggressive and invasive treatment options.
During a physical examination, your doctor will first look for tenderness and swelling. Your doctor will also look at the range of motion you have as well as identifying what positions that cause the pain in your elbow. Your doctor might advise you to cut back on certain activities because osteoarthritis may be caused by the repetitive overuse of the joint.
Depending upon the severity, your doctor may advise you to engage in a physical therapy program and perhaps even prescribe pain reliever medicines if your doctor believes that your arthritis can be treated by a non-surgical approach.
However, if your arthritis does not respond to these treatments, you might need discuss with your doctor the options of a surgical treatment. The type of surgery will depend on the type of your arthritis, the stage of the disease, your age, along with expectations and desired activity requirements.
There are options available if you have arthritis pain in the elbow. Don’t just sit around in whine about the pain, see your healthcare provider to find out what choices are available to you.