Elbow Arthritis

Elbow arthritis can cause significant pain and other symptoms that reduce quality of life and one’s ability to perform normal activities. Most cases of arthritis can be effectively managed with the help of an arthritis doctor. Dr. Howard Marans is the top elbow arthritis doctor in Fountain Valley.

Types of Arthritis

Arthritis refers broadly to inflammation of a joint. There are several types of arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis – Degeneration of the cartilage, and sometimes the bones, in the joint. Osteoarthritis is strongly associated with age and genetics.
• Post-traumatic arthritis – Arthritis that develops after trauma to the elbow. Post-traumatic arthritis may occur after falls or after chronic overuse of the elbow.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – A progressive autoimmune condition in which the body attacks the healthy tissue in the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs in both elbows and in other parts of the body, and requires careful management to preserve function as much as possible.

There are also a number of less common forms of arthritis, such as infectious arthritis and gout.

Symptoms

Arthritis can cause a number of symptoms. Symptoms to look out for include:

• Pain, which may occur at certain times of the day or after certain activities
• Swelling, especially with rheumatoid arthritis
• Instability of the elbow
• Inability to take the elbow through its full range of motion
• Elbow stiffness
• Elbow locking

Treatment

If you have symptoms of elbow arthritis, evaluation and treatment by an arthritis doctor is important. A skilled arthritis doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and formulate a plan of treatment that fully addresses the implications of the diagnosis.

For most cases of arthritis, non-surgical treatment is sufficient. Medications such as Aleve and Advil can be used to keep joint inflammation down. Specific medications are also available for rheumatoid arthritis.

Physical therapy and lifestyle changes are also important. Physical therapy can reduce inflammation and restore function to the joint. It should be accompanied by long-term lifestyle changes, such as avoiding overuse of the elbow and stretching the elbow regularly. Lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and occupational therapy are especially important for rheumatoid arthritis patients, who risk losing use of the joint.

If the condition does not respond to non-surgical treatments, then it may sometimes be necessary to use surgery. Surgery is chosen on a case-by-case basis, and the benefits must be carefully weighed against the risks and downsides.

Top Elbow Arthritis Doctor

Dr. Howard Marans of OC Orthopedics is the top arthritis doctor in Fountain Valley, CA. Dr. Marans has treated hundreds of patients with arthritis. He takes into account the factors that make each patient’s case unique, such as their medical history, age, and activity level to formulate a personalized plan of treatment.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your arthritis. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at 714.979.8981.