Elbow Joint Pain:
Not a Laughing Matter

Elbow joint pain is usually caused by ligament damage that results in irregular joint operation. The cartilage gets worn away and eventually the bones rub together leading to inflammation and pain.

The elbow isn't a complicated joint compared to the foot or the hand, but it can develop osteoarthritis like any other joint. The pain results from the cartilage in the joint becoming worn or damaged. The cartilage can wear due to injury or as part of the normal aging process.

The reason osteoporosis doesn't develop in the elbow as often as it does in other joints is because the elbow is a very stable joint. It has strong ligaments holding the joint steady and is well designed for the job it must do. Injury is the main cause in many cases of osteoarthritis as opposed to normal wear and tear.

Most of the time, osteoporosis will lead to joint pain. When you have constant elbow joint pain it could be the ligaments are damaged or a broken bone has not healed, the cartilage can wear due to an unstable joint. Tennis elbow is a painful condition that occurs because of repetitive use of the elbow.

Controlling the pain is important because favoring the arm to prevent painful episodes can lead to a loss of range of motion. The first sign of osteoarthritis is a feeling that the joint is locking up or not operating smoothly. When cartilage is torn, pieces can float in the joint fluid and hinder joint movement.

Pain may not be felt early in the disease, but eventually it will onset as the cartilage wear continues. The joint can become inflamed and painful as the worn cartilage pieces or the unstable joint bones irritate the joint lining. Though surgery may be needed in some cases, it is often possible to control the pain with home treatments.

Managing the pain can begin with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or pain medications. Some people find relief by taking glucosamine/chondroitin Supplements for a long period of time.

Doing exercises that strengthen ligaments can help also help with elbow joint pain. The application of warm compresses can also help reduce inflammation bringing pain relief.

Gentle Exercises.

To reduce the causes of joint pain, try a gentle range-of-motion exercises daily. Put each joint through its full range of motion by bending, stretching, and extending the joint and surrounding muscles.

• Adjust your activity according to your pain level.
• Avoid excessive pressure on the small joints of the hand.
• Pace yourself by balancing rest and activity.
• Extend your joints instead of contracting them.
• Try to use the largest or strongest joint possible when doing a specific task.
• Make an effort to maintain your ideal weight.
• Use assistance devices to preserve your joints.
• Change positions as often as possible.
• Avoid heavy lifting if possible.
• Whenever possible, sit instead of standing.

Remember:
If what you are doing, feels like too much, it is too much.
For your own sake, know and respect your limitations.
Good nutrition and exercise, will help keep your weight in check.

If the osteoporosis leads to unmanageable pain, the doctor can offer treatment options. Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief. Hyaluronic acid injections have also been used successfully. Surgical treatments include arthroscopy and joint replacements.

Never lose sight of your goals. The surgeon and surgical team do their work in the operating room - the rest is up to you. Be inspired and work hard during the rehabilitation phase of your recovery.

Fortunately, in many cases, elbow joint pain can be managed with home treatments which also improve overall joint mobility.









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