Arthritis of the Elbow
What is Arthritis of the elbow?
Arthritis of the elbow (Osteoarthritis) occurs when the cartilage surface of the elbow is worn out or is damaged. This can happen because of a previous injury (such as elbow dislocation or fracture), but is most commonly the result of a normal wearing away of the joint cartilage from age and activity.
Osteoarthritis usually affects the weight-bearing joints, such as the hip and knee. The elbow is one of the least affected joints because of its well matched joint surfaces and strong stabilising ligaments. As a result, the elbow joint can tolerate large forces across it without becoming unstable.
Conservative treatments in the form of rest, pain relief medication, and sometimes corticosteroid injections are most often used to treat osteoarthritis of the elbow, but surgical intervention may be considered if the condition is severely developed or not responding to nonsurgical options.
Patient information for elbow surgeries, injuries and conditions.
Elbow Treatments
Dr James McLean performs many different surgeries to treat elbow injuries and conditions. Browse the links below for more information on individual surgeries and how they are performed.
Depending on the type and severity of your elbow injury, surgery might be the best option. Dr James McLean specialises in minimally invasive arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery. His aim is to get you the best possible outcome, taking into account your lifestyle, general health and family situation. Before surgery, Dr McLean will guide you through the process and address any concerns you have.
If you have a sports injury or other elbow condition, act now and make an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage and reduce the potential for a full recovery.
Call our friendly team on 08 7077 0101 to make an appointment or use our handy online booking service. Consultations are available in Dulwich (SA), Bedford Park (SA) and Elizabeth Vale (SA).
Common Elbow Injuries
Browse the links below for more information on common elbow injuries, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Elbow Conditions
Browse the links below for more information on specific elbow conditions, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Patient information
Have you tried our…
Elbow pain self assessment tool?
How Dr James McLean can help
Dr James McLean provides consultation and various treatments for a wide variety of elbow conditions in Adelaide.
With his extensive experience in treating upper limb conditions, he works with his patients to create tailored treatment plans which yield the best possible outcomes for their injuries.
Click here for more information on other conditions involving the shoulder, hand, wrist, and elbow which Dr James McLean has a special interest in treating.