Causes and risk factors
Every form of arthritis is caused due to wear and tear or degeneration of the cartilages over the time. Hyaline cartilage is the tissue found on many joint surfaces. This cartilage remains in a balanced state due to the process of deterioration and revival. However, excess of degeneration causes osteoarthritis. Osteoporosis is the major causative factor for osteoarthritis. Certain factors which can predispose osteoarthritis are mechanical injuries. A previous history of fall or injury predisposes a person to this condition. Poor strength of muscles or overuse of the muscles of the elbow resulting on excess of load on the elbow joint or injury to the surrounding nerves are the other contributing factors seen. Certain metabolic diseases like obesity or diabetes can also evoke osteoarthritis. Baseball players are more prone to this injury.
Clinical presentation:
Symptoms develop gradually. Pain in elbow joint, swelling, and stiffness are the prominent features. Pain may vary from person to person. It can be mild or severe. Difficulty in movement of elbow is experienced by the patient. A locking sensation is complained. Muscle weakness, malaise, and tenderness are also present. The pain and stiffness caused can hamper the day-to-day activity thus making the person feel irritable and depressed. Swelling of the elbow can cause compression of the ulnar nerve resulting in numbness and tingling. Gradually, numbness is felt in the ring finger and small finger.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the orthopedic doctor. Certain physical tests are carried out. Synovial fluid examination and serum osteocalcin tests are diagnostic. Other investigations done are x-ray. MRI or CT scan of the affected joint along with DEXA scan is done. Routine blood test and a profile of specialized blood tests are done to differentiate the type of arthritis.
Treatment:
The treatment plan depends upon the severity of complaint. In mild cases, pain relieving medications and anti-inflammatory medications are advised. Topical steroids or oral steroids medications are given. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections and topical pain relieving gels and lubricants are advised. Viscosupplementation is another effective mode of treatment giving effective results. Patients who are not responding to conservative mode of treatment are treated with surgical intervention, i.e., arthroscopy. Physical therapy is started which will help to strengthen the tendon and muscle and improve the flexibility.
Other modes of treatment:
Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on certain stimulating spots on the body has been proved to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
Complications:
Over time if neglected or not treated properly, the affected joint and its surrounding structures will deteriorate.
When to contact a doctor:
Contact an orthopedic doctor if one experiences any pain, swelling, or stiffness in the elbow joint.
System involved: Musculoskeletal system
Organ involved: Bones, nerves, tendon, joints and elbow, arthritis
