This condition presents with pain, swelling and loss of movement in the elbow. It usually has a gradual onset. The diagnosis is confirmed with an X-ray.
It can be caused by osteoarthritis (wear and tear) or inflammatory arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis).

The treatments involve analgesia, activity modification and physiotherapy. Steroid injections can be considered if pain persists. As a last resort, surgery can be considered. This includes keyhole surgery to debride the joint and release tight ligaments. Elbow replacement surgery is also possible, but this has significant limitation and will need to be discussed with your surgeon.

If keyhole surgery is performed, the patient will have small wounds around the elbow. These will take approximately 10 days to heal. Patients will be allowed to mobilise the elbow as comfort allows.