Elbow arthritis develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the joint begins to wear away or becomes inflamed. As the protective layer breaks down, bones rub directly against each other, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited motion.
While less common than arthritis in the knees or hips, elbow arthritis can significantly impact daily life — making it difficult to reach, lift, or support weight on the arm.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we treat both osteoarthritis (degenerative) and rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory) of the elbow with a full spectrum of care. Patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas trust Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, to deliver precise diagnosis and individualized treatment for lasting relief.
The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by three bones — the humerus, ulna, and radius — that allow bending and rotation. Cartilage covers these bones where they meet, enabling smooth motion.
When arthritis develops:
- Osteoarthritis gradually wears down cartilage from repetitive motion, aging, or injury.
- Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium), leading to inflammation and cartilage damage.
- Other types, like post-traumatic arthritis, may follow fractures or dislocations.
As the condition progresses, the joint becomes painful, stiff, and less mobile, sometimes accompanied by grinding, locking, or catching sensations.
Causes and Risk Factors
Arthritis can result from both degenerative wear and autoimmune disease.
Common causes include:
- Age-related degeneration (wear and tear over time)
- Previous elbow injury such as fracture or dislocation
- Repetitive stress from work or athletics
- Rheumatoid arthritis or gout
- Genetic predisposition to joint inflammation
Risk factors:
- Age 45 and older
- Occupations requiring repetitive lifting or upper extremity strain
- Previous joint trauma or surgery
- Autoimmune or metabolic conditions
- Family history of arthritis
Elbow arthritis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity but usually worsen gradually.
Common symptoms include:
- Deep joint pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness and loss of motion, especially in the morning
- Grinding or popping sounds (crepitus)
- Swelling or tenderness around the joint
- Weakness or reduced ability to grasp or lift
- Locking or catching due to loose cartilage fragments
Pain may increase with weather changes or prolonged use of the arm.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke uses advanced imaging and diagnostic expertise to identify the type and extent of arthritis, as well as any contributing mechanical issues.
Diagnostic process includes:
- Detailed medical history: Reviewing symptom onset, occupational factors, and prior injuries.
- Physical examination: Assessing range of motion, strength, and joint stability.
Imaging studies:
- X-rays: Identify cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing.
- MRI: Evaluates soft tissue, inflammation, and early cartilage damage.
- CT scan: Used for surgical planning in advanced arthritis.
Lab testing: (for suspected rheumatoid arthritis or gout) to detect inflammation or antibodies.
Early diagnosis helps slow joint degeneration and improve long-term outcomes.
Dr. Burke provides a full range of non-surgical and surgical options tailored to each patient’s condition, goals, and lifestyle.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients find significant relief with conservative care:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Reduce pain and swelling.
- Corticosteroid injections: Provide temporary relief from inflammation.
- Viscosupplementation: Gel injections that lubricate the joint for smoother motion.
- Improves flexibility and strength in surrounding muscles.
- Helps maintain joint motion and reduces stiffness.
PRP or regenerative treatments: Platelet-rich plasma injections stimulate healing and slow cartilage breakdown.
Lifestyle modification: Activity adjustments, ergonomic aids, and supportive bracing.
These methods relieve symptoms while delaying or avoiding surgery.
Surgical Treatments
When non-surgical measures no longer provide adequate relief, Dr. Burke offers advanced surgical options designed to restore function and reduce pain.
Surgical options include:
- Minimally invasive technique to remove bone spurs or loose cartilage.
- Smooths joint surfaces and reduces stiffness.
Reconstructive Surgery
- Repairs damaged soft tissues or stabilizes the joint for better mechanics.
Elbow Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)
- Replaces worn-out joint surfaces with artificial components to restore pain-free movement.
Fusion (Arthrodesis):
- Fuses bones together for stability when other options aren’t suitable (usually last resort).
These procedures aim to improve quality of life with minimal downtime and durable results.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on the treatment type and arthritis severity.
Typical recovery timelines:
- Non-surgical: Gradual improvement over weeks to months.
- Arthroscopy: 2–3 months for full recovery.
- Joint replacement: 3–6 months for functional restoration.
Rehabilitation goals:
- Control inflammation and pain.
- Restore range of motion and flexibility.
- Strengthen surrounding muscles for joint stability.
- Improve everyday function and reduce recurrence risk.
A tailored rehabilitation plan helps each patient regain comfort and independence.
Long-Term Outlook and Prevention
While arthritis cannot be cured, early and consistent treatment helps preserve motion and minimize pain. Many patients maintain excellent function for years with proactive care.
Prevention and management tips:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
- Engage in low-impact exercise like swimming or cycling.
- Avoid repetitive heavy lifting when possible.
- Warm up and stretch before activity.
- Address elbow injuries promptly to prevent secondary arthritis.
Ongoing therapy and medical monitoring can help maintain long-term results.
When to Seek Medical Care
Schedule an orthopedic consultation if:
- You experience chronic elbow pain or stiffness.
- Movement is restricted or grinding occurs during motion.
- Pain interferes with work or daily activities.
- Swelling or deformity develops around the joint.
Early care provides better control over pain and joint preservation.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If elbow stiffness or pain is limiting your daily activities, expert orthopedic care can restore comfort and function.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide advanced, evidence-based treatments for elbow arthritis, tailored to your unique needs.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering complete diagnosis, therapy, and surgical options for all stages of arthritis.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint restoration and replacement.
