Elbow Contractures or Stiffness

Request a Consultation

Elbow contractures or stiffness occur when the range of motion in the elbow is restricted, making it difficult to fully straighten or bend the arm. This condition often results from injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility, such as keeping the elbow in a cast or sling for an extended period. Because elbow contractures can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, treatments aim to restore range of motion and help individuals regain strength and mobility.

Causes

Elbow contractures or stiffness can be caused by factors such as:

Neurological Conditions: Some neurological disorders can contribute to abnormal muscle tone or stiffness in the elbow.
Injury: Trauma to the elbow (such as a fracture, dislocation, or ligament damage) can lead to scarring or stiffness in the joint.
Prolonged Immobility: Extended periods of immobilization following surgery or injury can result in elbow joint stiffness due to reduced movement and muscle atrophy.
Arthritis: Inflammatory or degenerative arthritis in the elbow joint may lead to restricted movement over time.
Scar Tissue Formation: Injuries or surgeries involving the elbow can cause scar tissue to develop, limiting joint flexibility.

Contact OUr Office for a Consultation

Treatments

Treatment for elbow contractures focuses on improving flexibility, restoring range of motion, and addressing the underlying cause of stiffness. Treatment options include:

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide patients through targeted exercises and stretches to gradually improve elbow joint flexibility and strength.
Bracing or Splinting: Dynamic splints or braces can apply gentle pressure to the elbow, encouraging gradual stretching of tight tissues and increasing range of motion.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs, can reduce swelling and discomfort in cases where inflammation contributes to stiffness.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be used to decrease inflammation and improve mobility, particularly if arthritis or scar tissue is involved.
Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures may include removing scar tissue, releasing contracted ligaments, or repairing damaged structures to restore movement.

Request a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of an elbow contracture?

Symptoms of an elbow contracture include difficulty fully straightening or bending the elbow, reduced range of motion, stiffness, and in some cases, pain or discomfort during movement.

How is an elbow contracture diagnosed?

A thorough physical examination is needed to diagnose an elbow contracture. Your doctor will assess your range of motion and evaluate for underlying conditions that may be contributing to your elbow stiffness. Imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRIs) can provide detailed information about joint structure and any contributing issues, such as bone spurs or scar tissue.

Can elbow contractures be prevented?

While some causes of elbow contractures cannot be avoided, you can reduce your risk by maintaining regular elbow movement during recovery from injuries, following all your physical therapy recommendations, and avoiding prolonged immobilization of the elbow joint unless medically necessary.

How long does it take to recover from an elbow contracture?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the contracture and the type of treatment. Mild cases may improve with a few weeks of physical therapy while more severe cases requiring surgery may take several months to fully recover.

Is surgery always necessary for elbow contractures?

No, surgery is typically considered a last resort for elbow contractures that do not improve with conservative treatments. Most cases of elbow contracture or stiffness can be managed effectively without surgery.

How does physical therapy help treat elbow stiffness?

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the elbow. A physical therapist can create a personalized plan to address elbow stiffness and improve joint flexibility through targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques.

Hand Conditions

Wrist Conditions

Elbow Conditions