Rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow joint. What do you need to know? Arthritis of the elbow joint: symptoms and possible treatment methods

An alarming symptom is pain in the joints of the hands, especially the elbow joint. According to statistics, pain in the elbow region accounts for 55% of the total number of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. In specialized medical institutions, patients seek help almost at the last stage, when the articular structure undergoes pathological changes in the anatomical structure, that is, an increase in size due to swelling and limitation of movement. What could it be? This pathology is an inflammation of the elbow joint accompanied by complications such as infection and destruction. To avoid such problems, you need to know everything about arthritis of the elbow joint, symptoms and treatment.

Arthritis of the elbow joint is characterized by inflammatory and destructive changes in the design of the elbow joint, namely: bones, cartilage tissue, capsule, ligaments and muscle tissue. The pathological symptom complex consists of specific reactions such as pain varying degrees, swelling and stiffness motor function depending on the degree of damage to the articular components. The patient is unable to flex or extend the arm (or both arms if bilaterally affected) and is unable to lift even the lightest objects. With this disease, patients try to spare the diseased organ and give it a certain position.

Anatomy of the elbow joint

The structure of the elbow joint is biomechanically very complex, but thanks to this upper limbs have high mechanical resistance and mobility. Articulation of the elbow, shoulder and radius It is fastened by means of three articular fastenings, namely: radioulnar, humeroulnar and brachioradialis. The ligamentous system and capsule with synovial fluid protect the bone and cartilage system from mechanical abrasion and injury during movements. In case of injury, treatment of elbow joint arthritis begins only after instrumental examination of the intra-articular space and its components.

A hard layer of cartilage and connective tissue helps in cushioning bones, as well as in stabilizing all structural components. The anatomical details are firmly fixed to each other. All three elbow joints have one capsule. If one of them is damaged, the others also suffer, or rather are involved in an inflammatory or destructive process. Therefore, purulent arthritis of the elbow joint or arthritis of another etiology involves all three bones and joints in the process, which completely complicates the function of the limbs. The same situation occurs with mechanical damage to the elbow.

Causes of hand joint pathology

Factors that cause an inflammatory-destructive process in the elbow joint are divided into two groups: endogenous and exogenous. Plus, a number of reasons of unknown etiology are added to them; they are called idiopathic.

Causes endogenous origin This:

hereditary factor;
changes in metabolism, up or down;
endocrine diseases (toxic goiter);
diseases of the central nervous system;
hormonal imbalance;
post-traumatic arthritis of the elbow joint;
malignant formations in bones, cartilage tissue or metastases cancerous tumor other organs and systems;
infectious pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (hepatitis, second and third stages of diabetes mellitus, blood diseases, cholecystitis, pancreatitis) and respiratory systems (bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, sycosis and bronchial asthma);
post-operative complications;
leaching of calcium from bone tissue;
blood poisoning with infectious agents;
allergic reaction (reactive arthritis of the elbow joint);
pathology of the development of cartilage and bone tissue;
connective tissue diseases (for this reason, rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow joint occurs);
ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke;
kidney disease (chronic pyelonephritis, urolithiasis disease And renal failure);
a complication after sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea.

List of exogenous factors:

mechanical impacts on the elbow (blow, bruise, contusion or compression);
general poisoning of the body with poisons, acids, gases, alkalis;
increased background radiation (radiation sickness).

All factors belong to the group of causes; arthritis of the elbow joint ICD 10 (international classification of diseases 10 revision).

According to the form of manifestation, inflammation of the elbow joint is divided into: acute and chronic form.

Depending on the type, the disease is divided into: infected (purulent), uninfected (serous) and destructive type.

According to the stage of development, inflammation of the elbow is divided into first, second and third degrees.

Symptoms of elbow arthritis

Symptomatic signs of arthritis of the elbow joint or inflammation of the elbow are divided into two groups: local type and general. The local picture consists of a pain syndrome of varying intensity (from aching to sharply throbbing and unbearable pain), swelling (minor, medium and large), redness of the skin around the sore elbow and limitation of movement.

Arthritis of the elbow joint, general symptoms: in the second and third stages of arthrosis, general weakness, migraines, nausea, decreased appetite, fever up to 39-40 degrees with severe aches (especially at night) and pain radiating to the shoulder and shoulder blade are detected. High temperatures cause increased levels of sweating, a gag reflex, and, not rarely, confusion.

Elbow pain is one of the most important symptoms. Its intensity depends on the degree of damage to the organ, as well as on the factor causing arthritis. The latter includes connective tissue disease (arthritis of rheumatoid origin) and is expressed symptomatically in sharp pain and stopping of joint movement, gouty arthrosis is characterized by aching pain, and ordinary arthrosis is expressed in gradually increasing pain, swelling and body temperature. Synovial fluid accumulates in the bursa and surrounding tissues. The infectious and inflammatory process involves articular cartilage, bursa, ligaments and muscles. This symptomatic picture also applies to arthrosis and arthritis of the elbow joint with elements of destruction.

Attention! Rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow joint, the symptoms of which differ from the usual form of arthritis, should be treated only inpatiently and only according to the treatment regimen prescribed by a rheumatologist or traumatologist. Independent self-medication measures can lead to disability.

Diagnosis of the disease

Diagnosis refers to patient complaints of pain and swelling. At visual inspection swelling of the articular area with redness of the skin is visible. Palpation results: pain, tension in the tissues surrounding the elbow and detection of fluid accumulation.

There are special diagnostic techniques or symptoms that allow you to correctly diagnose the disease, namely:

Thompson maneuver: the hand should bend to the back; if it quickly assumes a palmar position due to unbearable pain, then there is a problem in the elbow joint obvious signs inflammation.
Welt's maneuver: synchronized flexion of both arms. If one hand is late in performing this movement, and its cause is a painful sensation, this is a clear result of an inflammatory articular pathology.

Important! Data specific symptoms identifying pathological changes in the joints of the hands depend on the degree of development of the disease. In the first degree, these symptoms are mild, but in the second and third degrees they have a clear picture of pain.

Radiography in two projections and puncture of the diseased joint, in case of swelling, are mandatory points for instrumental examination patients. X-rays are sufficient to detect the first degree of the disease as acute arthritis of the elbow joint. Further, MRI and ultrasound examinations are performed for the second and third degrees of the disease; these procedures are prescribed by a doctor. The definitive diagnosis of elbow arthritis is a diagnosis based on computed tomography. This method will indicate the exact source of infection and the extent of damage.

Treatment of elbow arthrosis

From efficiency therapeutic therapy the result of a complete recovery depends physiological function sore limb. How to treat elbow arthritis correctly? The most optimal treatment regimen includes the following steps:

conservative treatment consisting of medications, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, special massage and auxiliary folk remedies;
surgical intervention.

Drug therapy

In the acute form, analgesics and antibiotics are prescribed, as well as one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Plus, the limb needs to be immobilized, giving the joint complete rest. This manipulation will lower the pain barrier. In the second degree, one of the drugs Analgin, Baralgin or Ketanov, as well as Diclofenac Sodium or Dikloberl are also prescribed. It is better to prescribe these drugs in injection form.

If the pathology is accompanied by fever, detoxification drip therapy, one broad-spectrum antibiotic (Lincomycin in injections) and B vitamins are prescribed. Vitamin C is prescribed as an antioxidant agent. Arthritis of allergenic origin must include a desensitizing drug in the list of the therapeutic regimen, such as: Diphenhydramine, Suprastin or Tavegil. At severe forms Dexamethasone or Prednisolone is prescribed. Injections of such drugs are performed inside the joint.

Ointments, gels and lotions are prescribed locally. Gel or ointment for arthritis of the elbow joint, especially in the treatment of first and second degree arthritis, is effective means to eliminate pain and swelling. You can choose one of the drugs based on non-steroidal substances, namely Indomethacin, Diclofenac or Piroxicam. Gels are quickly absorbed into the skin, their effect is higher than that of ointments. Plus, the concentration of active medication- there is more in gels. To restore cartilage tissue, chondroprotectors are prescribed - Chondroxide or Chondrolone.

Physiotherapeutic procedures, exercise therapy and special massage

Physiotherapeutic procedures in the form of electrophoresis from lotions based on non-steroidal drugs and UHF will eliminate inflammation and improve blood circulation. The latter enhances metabolism and regeneration of affected tissues. In addition to these methods, it is prescribed according to medical indications phonophoresis, magnetic therapy, and amplipus. Mud therapy, ozokerite and paraffin also help. All of the above is performed only after the inflammatory process has been eliminated.

Exercise therapy for arthritis of the elbow joint is a necessary procedure to restore function. Through special exercises, hand, during recovery period, is subject to loads. A variety of rotational, flexion and extension movements bring the organ back to normal. Exercises for arthritis of the elbow joint begin with gentle physical exercise, smoothly turning into volumetric movements with increasing physical activity. Moderate exercise leads to increased tissue metabolism, eliminating inflammation and restoring lost biomechanics.

The recommended exercises for arthritis of the elbow joint will strengthen the sore muscles and ligaments of the arm joints. Massage procedures will passively help the joint components regain their previous strength. Exercises for the elbow joints for rheumatoid arthritis are no different from those listed, but they must be performed constantly and under the supervision of a doctor. Physiotherapy, massage and physical activity are prescribed in rehabilitation period after undergoing surgery.

Important! Physiotherapeutic procedures are contraindicated for patients suffering from tuberculosis, oncological diseases and high blood pressure. For such patients, treatment of elbow arthritis at home is not recommended at all!

Folk remedies

Since time immemorial, folk remedies for arthritis of the elbow joint have helped people get rid of this disease, and the strangest thing is that they eliminated the disease partially or completely. In this case, the simplest ingredients were used, and are still used, such as garlic, apple cider vinegar and horseradish, as well as honey with cinnamon, iodine nets and propolis tincture. Sea salt ranks first in the treatment of elbow arthritis. Treatment with folk remedies is used in combination with drug therapy. These funds refer to auxiliary methods treatment, in singular they only extinguish the acute phase of the disease, which smoothly turns into a chronic form.

Unfortunately, the incidence of arthritis is increasing day by day. I don’t really want to spend the rest of my life handicapped, so you shouldn’t ignore the symptoms that correspond to this disease which requires immediate medical intervention.

Moreover, this disease affects not only older people. It is also very common among young representatives of the human race, which is very unfortunate.

The disease affects many joints, including the elbows. To know the enemy by sight, you need to understand what arthritis of the elbow joint is - the symptoms, and the treatment that can be used to alleviate the condition of the disease.

The elbow joint is an intricate mechanism consisting of three simple joints (radiulnar, humeroulnar, and humeroradialis) that provides mobility to the bones of the arm, which include the radius, ulna, and humerus. If one of them becomes inflamed, called arthritis, the movement of the arm may be partially or completely limited.

Chronic inflammation of one or more elbow joints, causing discomfort or pain when moving the arm, is elbow arthritis.

It arises from the accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity, which, stretching the joint capsule, causes pain, swelling and a feeling of stiffness, which intensify as the disease progresses. Elbow arthritis is autoimmune disease.

There may be several reasons for the appearance of the disease. Arthritis occurs as a result of:

Arthritis can also be caused by:

Hereditary factors;
Age limit (in women the disease manifests itself after 35 years, and in men after 40);
A lifestyle that is sedentary;
Negative factors such as depression, stress, hypothermia, mental stress, etc.;
Poor nutrition, lack of minerals and vitamins;
Increased air humidity in the room, lack of normal ventilation.

The disease manifests itself unnoticed at first. The joints begin to ache in the morning, some discomfort appears when the weather changes, however, all these sensations quickly pass, and few people run to the doctor with this. A person begins to realize that something is wrong with his joints only when the disease becomes chronic. This category mainly includes people who have passed the age of 65.

If you don't apply for it in time professional help, you can earn serious complications, or even become disabled.

What types of diseases are there?

Depending on the symptoms, arthritis can be:

There is also separate variety an ailment that arises from all of the above types of arthritis. It is called joint stiffness, which occurs due to improper treatment underlying disease. As a result of this, it arises, that is, its functioning is limited partially or completely.

Arthritis can manifest itself as an independent disease or as a result of complications:

Unfortunately, the disease is incurable, however, if you start timely and adequate therapy, and also lead correct image life, then you can forget about this unpleasant illness for a long time and return to normal life.

Arthritis of the elbow joint - symptoms

Arthritis of the elbow joint manifests itself:

It is worth considering that all of the above symptoms can occur not only with arthritis. They are also characteristic of other diseases, therefore, without accurate diagnosis It is not worth making a diagnosis of “arthritis of the elbow joint,” much less prescribing any treatment.

If these symptoms appear, you should urgently seek help. medical assistance to avoid serious complications.

How to Diagnose Elbow Arthritis

Already at the first examination, the doctor can conclude that arthritis is present, however, in order not to be mistaken, he prescribes various laboratory tests:

In accordance with the results of the examination, the specialist assesses the severity of the disease and the characteristics of its course and, in accordance with this, prescribes adequate treatment, and then maintenance therapy.

Traditional Treatment for Elbow Arthritis

After the attending physician has made an accurate diagnosis and determined the cause of arthritis of the elbow joint, he prescribes necessary treatment, which could be:

Medication;
Physiotherapeutic;
With help therapeutic exercises and massage;
Surgical.

Therapy can be complex and include several of the above methods.

Use of medications

First of all, in case of illness, painkillers are prescribed in order to relieve the patient of pain as much as possible.

Most often, pain is relieved by:

Along with analgesics, it is necessary to use anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs. When elbow arthritis preference is given to:

Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help well. Treatment of elbow arthritis cannot be done without:

At purulent arthritis resort to opening and removing the pus. To get rid of inflammation, the area from which the purulent contents have been removed is treated with antibacterial drugs (antibiotics) and anti-inflammatory drugs.

To restore cartilage tissue, chondroprotectors are prescribed. In this case, resort to:

These medications must be taken for a long time, however, they cannot be avoided in order to restore cell regeneration. If elbow arthritis is the result of an infectious disease, then a course of antibiotics is prescribed. Along with them, immunostimulating and antitoxic drugs are used.

In addition to the above, various ointments, gels, lotion solutions, and creams are prescribed.

The most common ointments for elbow arthritis are Menovazin, Nicoflex, Bischofite, Dimexide. They act as follows - when they get on the skin around the joint, these products have an irritating effect, thereby improving blood circulation and metabolic processes in the diseased joint.

Physiotherapy

This method of treatment is used only when the acute stage diseases. In the remission stage, treatment is carried out using:

These treatment methods are contraindicated for children and pregnant women, people suffering from tuberculous and tumor arthritis, as well as individuals prone to bleeding. Physiotherapy is not used to treat patients with arterial hypertension.

Therapeutic exercise and massage

Exercise therapy and massage are good additions to primary treatment. These methods are also used after the acute form of elbow arthritis has been relieved. The load on the affected joint is increased gradually. This method of therapy eliminates both the inflammatory process and strengthens ligamentous apparatus and atrophied muscles.

The physical therapy complex includes motor and strength exercises for a specific muscle group. Aerobics, walking, and swimming are of great benefit. Visits to the gym are possible, however, it is allowed to work out there if you are diagnosed with “elbow arthritis” only under the supervision of an instructor.

IN medical complex It also includes a massage, which consolidates all the effects of treatment that were achieved through medication, physiotherapy and therapeutic exercises.

Surgery

If all of the above methods of therapy do not bring the desired result, then they resort to more radical methods of treatment, that is, surgery.

With a purulent form of arthritis, it is necessary to resort to a surgical treatment method, pumping out the inflammatory fluid accumulated there from the affected joint. These manipulations are performed by a surgeon strictly in a hospital setting. Surgery is also necessary for intra-articular administration of drugs.

TO surgical treatment Arthritis of the elbow joint includes the following manipulations:

Arthroscopy, with the help of which various defects in the affected joints are identified and eliminated, even the most minor ones, which relieves patients from various kinds of complications;
Endoprosthetics, that is, replacement of damaged parts of the joint with implants;
Arthrodesis, in which the articular cartilage is replaced with a piece of bone taken from the olecranon;
Osteotomy. This process involves removing all or part of the olecranon process to relieve pressure on the affected joint;
Resection, which involves partial or complete removal of the diseased joint to restore the function of the elbow, etc.

To avoid surgical intervention, it is necessary to seek medical help at the first symptoms of elbow arthritis.

How to treat the elbow joint at home? In addition to traditional methods of therapy, elbow arthritis responds well to treatment with traditional methods, of which there are quite a few. However, before starting such treatment, it is still better to find out the exact diagnosis in order to be 100% sure that we are being treated for exactly what is needed.

Let traditional methods They are practically safe and effective, however, they also have contraindications that you need to know about before starting treatment.

Ways traditional medicine boil down mainly to the use of homemade ointments, rubbing, compresses, taking medicinal baths, applying mud and ingesting herbal decoctions and tinctures made with one’s own hands based on herbs, bee products, etc.

The most popular folk recipes used in the treatment of arthritis of the elbow joint:

There are many traditional methods for treating elbow arthritis - it’s impossible to list them all, however, this disease is still not completely curable. It takes on a chronic form, which, no, no, will make itself felt.

In order for this to happen as rarely as possible, you should treat your joints with care, take care of them, do not overexert yourself physically, avoid hypothermia, maintain healthy image life, increase immunity, become an adherent of a healthy diet, devote several hours a day walking etc.

In order not to bring yourself, your loved one, to disability, at the first pain in the elbow joint you must immediately go to the clinic to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe timely treatment.

No one will take better care of us except ourselves. The health of our elbow joints is affected by daily stress, which is why arthritis of the elbow joints is a common ailment among people. of different ages

. The causes of the disease are many and complications of arthritis are extremely dangerous.

We must not forget about the social side of the disease. A patient with arthritis cannot perform the simplest everyday activities and suffers unbearable pain. In the article you will find information about what arthritis of the elbow joint is, symptoms and treatment of the disease. Arthritis complications, prevention, and home remedies for relief are also listed here.

I recommend reading it to those who have already encountered this disease or are prone to it: the elderly, people who are susceptible to stress, hypothermia, heavy loads on the joints or obesity.

What is elbow arthritis?

Arthritis of the elbow joint

The elbow joint is a complex, movable connection of the bones of the human shoulder and forearm. It is formed by the articulation of the humerus, ulna and radius bones and consists of three joints. The anatomical features of the structure of bone surfaces determine the nature of movements in the elbow joint.

The combination of three joints: trochlear, spherical and cylindrical provides elbow flexion and extension, as well as rotation of the radius and rotation of the hand in and out. Arthritis is a chronic inflammation of the joint, which leads to limitation of its functions. The main difference between pathology and others similar diseases

With arthritis, in addition to severe pain and stiffness, the elbow joint may lose motion.

According to doctors, arthritis is one of the most common rheumatological diseases. Today, it affects about 1% of the world's population. Moreover, there are approximately equal numbers of young and elderly patients among them. Not least among the varieties of the disease is arthritis of the elbow joint.

Different types of arthritis:

Rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system destroys the synovium, or tissue lining the joints. There is progressive erosion and destruction of cartilage and bone, resulting in severe pain, stiffness and deformity.
Arthrosis. Normal cartilage has a smooth surface and provides gliding during movement, as well as shock absorption. With arthrosis, the cartilage becomes thin, and after some time the bones begin to rub against each other. Bone spurs or osteophytes may form inside the joint. In addition, loose bodies in the joint can lead to increased pain, as well as accelerate degeneration from mechanical wear and tear.
Post-traumatic arthritis. One of the most common causes of elbow arthritis is post-traumatic arthritis. People who have had previous fractures (distal fractures) humerus, radial head fractures, olecranon fractures) or elbow dislocation, may have cartilage damage that leads to progressive degradation of the joint.
Acute – purulent arthritis;
Psoriatic arthritis;
Arthritis due to gout;
Joint stiffness is a distinct type of arthritis that results from rheumatoid, psoriatic, or other joint arthritis.

With this disease, a person tries to independently limit the movement of the joint, usually keeping it in a bent state. Due to inattention and self-medication, the joint undergoes negative changes: ankylosis develops, and joint mobility is completely impaired.

Under the influence of certain factors, an inflammatory process begins that affects the joint and elbow capsule.
Arthritis of the elbow joint is always accompanied by an inflammatory process. As a result of inflammation, limited mobility, increased temperature and intense pain symptoms are observed.

Inflammation provokes deforming arthritis in the elbow joint. In the initial stages, the disease is quite difficult to diagnose. Symptoms of arthritis of the elbow joint appear during an acute inflammatory process.

The difficulty of diagnosis lies in identifying the reagent that catalyzes inflammation. Since the disease is often associated with an infectious disease, treat arthritis of the elbow joint with folk remedies, refusing drug therapy extremely unwise.

Causes

It is impossible to indicate one specific cause of arthritis, since each case of its occurrence is individual, and a combination of them can cause the disease.

The main difference between the pathology and other similar diseases is the accumulation of inflammatory fluid (exudate) in the joint cavity. This fluid stretches the joint capsule, causing pain, swelling and stiffness.

The development of elbow arthritis can be caused by:

Injuries. Fractures, dislocations and bruises lead to damage to joint tissue.
Metabolic disorders. For example, with gout, the disease develops due to metabolic disorders uric acid, the crystals of which begin to be deposited in the cavities of the joints. This form of arthritis is called gouty. Often lesions occur with psoriasis or diabetes mellitus, which are also accompanied by a deterioration in metabolic processes in the body;
Infections. Various viruses and bacteria provoke the appearance of reactive forms of arthritis. Among the most common pathogens are infections of the urogenital and intestinal tract(salmonella, campylobacter, shigella);
Malfunctions of the immune system. In rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune cells attack the tissues of its own joints and ligaments, which causes an inflammatory reaction.

In addition, you can often find situations in which there are no reasons for the occurrence of arthritis, but the disease exists. This disease is called idiopathic arthritis. Treatment is prescribed only after determining the level of complexity of the disease.

Arthritis of the elbow joint is usually one of the manifestations of the following diseases:

Rheumatism;
Rheumatoid arthritis;
Systemic lupus erythematosus;
Psoriasis;
Gout;

With these diseases, damage is noted not only to one or a group of joints, but also to other organs and entire systems of the body.

Rheumatoid, psoriatic and arthritis with gout have a similar development pattern. These types of arthritis begin gradually, which is their difference from acute purulent arthritis.

The pain in the joint is minimal and increases with movement. Over time, the pain can intensify to such an extent that it will bring the patient not only discomfort, but also suffering. Arthritis of the elbow joint can be either an independent or secondary disease.

Among the factors that increase the risk of the disease, doctors name:

Negative heredity;
Mature age (for women - over 35 years old, for men - over 40);
Sedentary lifestyle;
High physical loads on the elbow joint;
Hypothermia;
Stress.

Poor nutrition can also contribute to the development of inflammation. The fact is that a lack of vitamins and minerals increases the susceptibility of joints to external negative influences.

Arthritis of the elbow joint - symptoms

Peculiarities anatomical structure The elbow is also determined by characteristic signs of inflammation. For example, local signs are always well expressed, and based on them alone, a correct and timely diagnosis can be made.

The basis of any inflammatory process is the struggle of the human immune system with foreign cells. Exacerbation of arthritis also occurs for this reason. Inflammation of the elbow indicates the development of an infectious lesion of the joint capsule or (in the case of autoimmune pathologies) fight against the body's own cells.

In any case, arthritis begins with an inflammatory process, and the main signs and symptoms are closely related to its consequences.

Like any other inflammatory process, arthritis manifests itself in elevated body temperature, malaise and poor health. The patient loses appetite, headaches, nausea, and in some cases vomiting. But these symptoms can manifest themselves to varying degrees, depending on the cause of the inflammation.

The defining symptom is elbow pain, which manifests itself differently in different situations. So, if rheumatic processes occur in the elbow, it can be intense and sharp, limiting movement, and inflammation in the joint of gouty origin is manifested by a dull aching pain and a feeling of discomfort in the elbow joint.

The most striking manifestation of symptoms is caused by an infection in the joint when it comes to purulent arthritis. In this case, the elbow area is acutely painful, swelling and redness appear, and the skin around it becomes hot. Attempts to make any movement with the hand cause sharp pain.

Limitation of mobility in a joint can also be caused by the accumulation of excess synovial fluid in the capsule, and be a reaction to injury, for example, a bruise. Because of this, the joint capsule is overstretched, and the patient experiences a feeling of heaviness in the elbow and a feeling of discomfort. If the illness is caused by sepsis, purulent accumulations can be found on other parts of the body.

Onset of rheumatoid arthritis knee joint characterized acute inflammation, which is indicated by general malaise, a rise in temperature to 37.8 degrees. That is, depending on the root cause, arthritis of the elbow joint can occur in different ways.

However, 5 signs are common to all types of the disease:

Pain that gets worse with movement;
Swelling and change in the outline of the joint;
Feeling of tension in the elbow;
Redness and increased temperature of the skin over the elbow joint;
Pain along the entire surface of the joint, which is determined by palpation.

Arthritis pain can be either acute or aching. The discomfort is often worse at night or in the morning. Sometimes the stiffness in the joint is felt so strongly that it becomes difficult for patients to make simple movements - wash their face or pick up a spoon.

In addition to all the above symptoms, there are also specific signs that occur with certain diseases.

For example, with tumors, general exhaustion may be observed, with tuberculosis - the presence of blood in the saliva, with sepsis, abscesses and suppurations sometimes appear on the body, even far from the source of inflammation. Taking into account all the above symptoms, the rheumatologist diagnoses the disease.

Diagnostics

Very often, an accurate diagnosis can be made simply by having a clinical picture with the presence of signs characteristic of the disease. To do this, a detailed examination of the patient is carried out. You also need to ask the patient about how the elbow joint behaves during the day under various loads and at rest.

Diagnosis of arthritis of the elbow joint comes down to the following measures:

Medical examination to identify clinical signs of the disease;
Determining the presence of a joint in the area characteristic changes in the form of subcutaneous rheumatoid and rheumatic nodules, gouty tophi, psoriatic plaques;
X-ray and, if necessary, computer or magnetic resonance examination of the elbow joint;
Joint puncture to obtain synovial fluid necessary for research. The puncture is carried out to remove fluid in order to be able to evaluate it appearance and condition. After this, sowing is done on nutrient media;
Laboratory research, with the help of which you can assess the course of the inflammatory process and identify specific signs of one of the main diseases - increased content uric acid, rheumatoid factor and so on.

The doctor suspects elbow arthritis based on the patient's examination and complaints. To confirm the diagnosis, the patient is prescribed a comprehensive medical examination.

Blood test data are of particular importance. An excess of ESR unmistakably indicates an inflammatory process in the body. Presence rheumatoid factor- on the autoimmune nature of the disease.

Confirm degenerative changes X-ray examination of the joint helps. Additionally, CT and MRI may be performed.

Arthritis of the elbow joint - treatment

The fight against arthritis of the elbow joint can be quite long. Maximum effectiveness can be achieved by using several treatment methods or even a whole complex.

These methods are:

drug treatment;
physiotherapy;
physical therapy and massage;
surgery.

For getting good result It is important to consult a doctor when the first symptoms occur, and in no case self-medicate. It is the doctor who will conduct necessary examination, will summarize all the data obtained through the analyzes and select the most accurate therapy. Remember that the longer you wait to go to the hospital, the more difficult it will be to treat the disease later.

Arthritis therapy is aimed at eliminating the causes of inflammation and reducing pain. The doctor selects a set of treatment measures taking into account the type of disease.

To eliminate pain and stop inflammatory processes, the patient is prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They are used as a combination of ointment (Diclak gel) and injections (Diclofenac) or in the form of tablets containing acetylsalicylic acid. At the discretion of the doctor, drugs such as Nimesil, Piroxicam and Indomethacin may be prescribed.

Despite positive impact when treating the elbow joint, they can have a rather negative effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and liver. Therefore, when prescribing drugs, it is important to consider individual tolerance all components of the drug.

To quickly stop the source of inflammation and achieve the maximum concentration of injected drugs in the joint cavity, punctures with diprospan and any other drugs can be performed.

These drugs quickly suppress inflammatory reaction, eliminate pain and swelling. However a large number of adverse reactions make hormonal blockade an extremely undesirable procedure, which is resorted to only in extreme cases.

To relieve inflammation there are also steroid drugs, such as Prednisolone, Detralex or Hydrocortisone. They are usually used in tablets and ointments. To restore cartilage tissue, special restorative drugs are used - chondoprotectors (a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate).

In order to reflexively accelerate blood circulation and metabolic processes, drugs such as Menovazin, Bishofite, Nicoflex, etc. are prescribed. They irritate the joint when applied to the skin, thereby providing the necessary effect.

The affected joint must be provided with complete rest during an exacerbation. To do this, put a special immobilizing bandage (orthosis) on the elbow or simply reduce the load on the limb as much as possible.

Physiotherapy includes treatment procedures with mud baths, gymnastics, physical therapy, exercises and other procedures. All this will be useful for a healthy person for prevention purposes.

During the remission stage, physiotherapy is used:

Magnetotherapy;

The effect of a magnetic field relieves inflammation and swelling of tissues, and also stimulates blood circulation, accelerates metabolic processes in cells and promotes speedy recovery damaged joint components. The course of treatment consists of 10 – 15 procedures (performed daily or every other day), each of which lasts about 15 minutes.

Applications with ozokerite;

Application laser radiation improves microcirculation in the area of the inflamed joint, stimulates activity local immunity and speed up recovery processes in damaged tissues. The course of treatment consists of 5 – 7 procedures, each of which lasts 5 – 20 minutes (depending on the intensity and nature of the radiation).

Ultraviolet;

Ultraviolet irradiation of the skin in the area of the inflamed joint, carried out using special lamps, has bactericidal effect(destroys pathogenic bacteria), and also increases local protective properties tissues (in particular, increases resistance to viruses and bacteria). The course of treatment consists of 5 to 10 procedures, each of which can last from 3 to 10 minutes.

Ultra-high frequency therapy (UHF).

In this procedure, tissue is affected using a high-frequency electromagnetic field. This leads to expansion blood vessels, which improves the flow of immune cells to the site of inflammation. UHF therapy also stimulates the restoration of cartilage tissue, which is especially important during the rehabilitation period after suffering from arthritis. One procedure lasts on average 5 - 10 minutes, and during the course of treatment 10 to 15 procedures are performed (which can be performed every day or every other day).

Phonophoresis with hydrocortisone.

The essence of this procedure is as follows: oily hydrocortisone ointment is applied to the skin in the area of the affected joint (which is rubbed into the skin for 3 to 5 minutes), after which the affected area is exposed to an ultrasonic wave emitter for several minutes.

As a result of this, tissue cells in the affected area are subjected to micro-shocks, that is, a kind of massage effect is obtained. This improves microcirculation and accelerates metabolic processes in tissues, and also promotes deeper penetration of hydrocortisone ointment, which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.

However, the patient is not recommended to do this without a doctor’s prescription, so as not to harm himself. The doctor must develop individual therapy, taking into account the patient’s condition and the degree of development of the disease. He will tell you exactly what procedures should be performed, in what quantity and for how long. When it comes to physical therapy, it is important to calculate how much stress can be placed on damaged joints.

There are also contraindications for prescribing physiotherapy:

high blood pressure;
pregnancy;
tendency to bleed;
problems with the respiratory system;
tumor or tuberculosis form arthritis.

From traditional medicine, you can use compresses with cabbage leaves, grated potatoes, and burdock leaves. They are applied to the sore joint at night, wrapped with a woolen cloth on top. The procedures are done daily until the pain subsides completely.

Many patients benefit from baths with turpentine, mustard or pine extract to improve their well-being. Home “balneotherapy” stimulates blood circulation in the sore joint and reduces the feeling of stiffness. Warm baths are taken outside of exacerbations 1-2 times a week.

To treat arthritis you can use:

Infusion of St. John's wort herb. To prepare the infusion, take 30 - 40 grams of chopped herb, place it in glass jar and pour a full glass of boiling water. Let it brew in a dark place for 3 - 4 hours, then filter thoroughly and take 1 tablespoon orally 3 times a day (15 - 20 minutes before meals).
Calendula infusion. The infusion is prepared as follows - 1 tablespoon (about 5 - 10 grams) of calendula flowers is poured with 1 glass of boiling water, then infused in a dark place at room temperature for 2 - 3 hours. The resulting infusion should be filtered and taken orally up to 1 tablespoon (for adults) or teaspoon (for children) 3 times a day half an hour before meals.
Tincture of yarrow herb. To prepare the tincture, 30 grams (about 2 tablespoons) of dry crushed yarrow herb should be placed in a glass jar, filled with 1 glass of vodka, tightly closed with a lid and placed in a dark place for 7 - 10 days. After this, the tincture should be strained and taken orally, 1 ml three times a day before meals (dilute 20 drops of tincture in 1 tablespoon of warm boiled water).
Echinacea decoction. To prepare a decoction, 50 grams of crushed Echinacea roots are poured with 400 - 500 milliliters of hot water and kept in a boiling water bath for 30 minutes. After this, allow the broth to cool at room temperature, filter it and take 1 - 2 tablespoons 2 - 4 times a day before meals. The decoction is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

It is recommended to warm up joints with arthritis only after consulting a doctor, since if used incorrectly, this method can lead to the development of serious complications. The fact is that when exposed to heat, blood vessels dilate and microcirculation in tissues improves. On the one hand, this improves delivery nutrients To damaged tissues and helps flush out toxic products from the source of inflammation.

At the same time, improvement of microcirculation can cause the progression of the inflammatory process (with severe activity of rheumatic disease) or the spread of infection through the bloodstream throughout the body (with purulent arthritis). That is why thermal procedures are prescribed only for moderate and weak activity rheumatic diseases, after excluding infectious joint damage.

It is strictly not recommended to use massage during an exacerbation of rheumatoid or any other arthritis, as this will not only not give any positive result, but can also be harmful to the patient’s health.

The fact is that when the joint becomes inflamed, there is swelling and severe pain, which intensifies even with normal touch. It will not be possible to perform even a simple massage under these conditions, as this will lead to severe, unbearable pain. At the same time, a strong mechanical effect on the inflamed tissues will lead to their damage, which will only aggravate the symptoms of arthritis.

At the same time, massage can be successfully used during the recovery period, when acute inflammatory phenomena in the joint have subsided. Massage can also be used in postoperative period to speed up the healing process.

In the treatment of elbow arthritis, proper nutrition is of great importance. First of all, it is important to minimize the intake or completely eliminate from the diet foods containing large amounts of salt, spices or caffeine. It is also very important to reduce the intake of fatty foods and monitor your body weight and keep it normal.

It is recommended to include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet to replenish your vitamin supply. It is very useful to eat foods containing calcium (dairy products, nuts, beans, halva). You should eat meat every day, preferably poultry and fish, but lean.

Surgical intervention

The use of medications and a prescribed course of physiotherapy may not always bring relief. In some situations, surgery is not necessary.

Surgery is especially often required for purulent arthritis. Also, the method of surgical therapy can be used if the process of damage to the elbow joint has reached the stage of deformation.

TO surgical methods resort to late stages arthritis, with pronounced irreversible changes in the joint, a significant decrease in joint function.

The following operations are performed for the elbow joint:

arthroscopy - removal of processes from the bone and other manipulations through a microincision;
endoprosthetics - replacement of joint components with implants;
artodesis – complete immobilization of the joint;
arthrolysis or Wolff's operation - excision of fibrous adhesions;
synovectomy - removal of the affected synovial membrane;
osteotomy - removal of part of the bone in order to reduce pressure on the joint;
resection – removal of a joint or part of it;
arthroplasty - joint replacement.

However, no operation guarantees 100% restoration of function in the joint.

Surgical treatment also includes puncture of the elbow joint, which is used for diagnostic and treatment purposes. It is performed to remove blood and/or effusion from the joint cavity with its subsequent diagnosis (microscopy, bacteriological analysis), washing the cavity, administering medicinal and radiopaque substances.

The appointment of surgery can be provoked by the patient himself, in order to remove a growth on the elbow bone. One of the common methods is endoprosthetics - complete or partial replacement of a worn-out joint.

Physical rehabilitation after endoprosthetics lasts from 7 to 10 days. Usually the hand regains mobility on the second or third day.

The recovery period can be spent in a sanatorium that specializes in joint diseases, and where you can undergo mud treatment, massage, physical therapy and other physiotherapeutic procedures. This type of treatment will reduce the frequency of relapses and allow the patient to lead a full, active life.

Surgery is a last resort. An operation is assigned when methods traditional therapy don't bring positive results During a long time. If the patient has pain in the elbow joints, remove pain syndrome Traditional methods fail, surgery is performed.

Complications

Complications largely depend on the cause of the arthritis, as well as the treatment given. For example, long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for arthritis of a rheumatic nature can lead to damage to the gastrointestinal system and cause the formation of ulcers.

At the same time, treatment of purulent arthritis with antibiotics can cause the destruction of intestinal microflora and the development of dysbiosis. That is why, during treatment for arthritis, the patient must strictly follow the doctor’s instructions and undergo all prescribed examinations in a timely manner in order to early detect developing complications.

Arthritis itself can be complicated by:

Osteoporosis.

This term refers to a decrease in bone mass combined with a decrease in bone density. Reason this complication is considered a long-term, sluggishly progressive systemic inflammatory process observed in rheumatoid and other rheumatoid arthritis.

An increased concentration of pro-inflammatory (supporting the inflammatory process) mediators stimulates the process of destruction of bone tissue and leaching of calcium salts from it. First of all pathological process affects the articular surfaces of the bones in the area of the affected joints, but later generalized osteoporosis may occur.

Amyloidosis.

This disease is characterized by the formation of pathological amyloid protein in the body, which accumulates in various tissues (kidneys, organs of the gastrointestinal system, etc.), gradually destroying them.

Amyloid is formed in mutated cells of the immune system, which is noted with long-term progressive inflammatory diseases in organism.

Spread of infection.

With purulent arthritis, the capsule may melt hip joint and the spread of infection to surrounding tissues (ligaments, muscles, bones, subcutaneous fat, and so on). The infection can also spread throughout the body as a result of damage to blood vessels and penetration pathogenic bacteria into the blood.

This will manifest itself as a deterioration in the patient’s general condition, a more pronounced increase in temperature (up to 41–42 degrees), severe headaches and muscle pain, increased sweating, impaired consciousness, and so on.

Dislocation.

With prolonged progression of the inflammatory process in the joint, they can be destroyed. articular cartilage and intra-articular ligaments, and the articular surfaces of bones can also be affected.

All this leads to a decrease in the strength of the fixing apparatus of the joint, which, with increasing load (for example, during a jump from a height or when lifting a weight), can lead to rupture of weakened ligaments and displacement articular surfaces bones relative to each other (that is, to dislocation).

Joint contracture.

Contracture is pathological condition, manifested by a decrease in the range of motion in the joint due to damage to the muscles, tendons, ligaments or other components of the joint.

Contractures can be passive or active. In the first case, the restriction of movements is caused by an anatomical defect in the intra-articular structures, as a result of which both active (performed by the patient himself) and passive (performed by the doctor’s hands) movements in the joint are limited.

With active contractures, the range of movements performed by the patient is reduced, but passive movements in the joint are still possible to varying degrees. The cause of active contractures may be, for example, muscle atrophy(decreased muscle volume and strength), which develops with prolonged immobility (for example, when applying plaster after joint replacement).

Ankylosis.

This term refers to the restriction of mobility in a joint due to intra-articular proliferation of bone, cartilage or fibrous tissue. This leads to the connection of the articular surfaces with each other, as a result of which mobility completely disappears (with bone or cartilaginous ankylosis) or is significantly limited (with fibrous ankylosis, in which barely noticeable, extremely painful movements are possible).

The main thing in treatment is to seek help from specialists in time. Basically, the outcome of the disease is favorable, but only with timely diagnosis and proper treatment.

Prevention

Like any other disease, arthritis is much easier to prevent than to subsequently deal with its complications. Unfortunately, some forms of the disease (such as juvenile or psoriatic arthritis) cannot be prevented because exact reasons and the mechanisms of their development have not been established to date.

At the same time, a set of preventive measures can prevent the development and progression of other common forms of the disease.

Some rules will help ensure that arthritis of the elbow joint most likely does not bother you:

It is necessary to play sports, but avoid excessive physical activity, which can also cause illness;
You should eat right, which is necessary to ensure that the body receives the necessary substances, and also to prevent excess weight;
Treat infectious diseases of any organ, system, joint in a timely manner;
If injuries occur, treat them promptly to prevent complications.

In general, if you take proper care of your own health, you can protect yourself from this disease. Remember that treating elbow arthritis is a process that requires an integrated approach.

It is possible to restore the ability to move the elbow joint if you undergo the entire complex of treatment without deviating from the rules.

If you decide to be treated with folk remedies, do not forget that they should be combined with methods traditional medicine to prevent further development of the disease

Source: medotvet.com, healthy-joint.ru, osteomed.su, medcentr-plus.ru, bubnovsky-art.ru, doc.ua, moisustavy.ru, medicmagazin.ru, ponchikov.net

megan92 () 2 weeks ago

Tell me, how does anyone deal with joint pain? My knees hurt terribly ((I take painkillers, but I understand that I am fighting the effect, not the cause...

Daria () 2 weeks ago

I struggled with my painful joints for several years until I read this article by some Chinese doctor. And I forgot about “incurable” joints a long time ago. So it goes

megan92 () 13 days ago

Daria () 12 days ago

megan92, that’s what I wrote in my first comment) I’ll duplicate it just in case - link to professor's article.

Sonya 10 days ago

Isn't this a scam? Why do they sell on the Internet?

julek26 (Tver) 10 days ago

Sonya, what country do you live in?.. They sell it on the Internet because stores and pharmacies charge a brutal markup. In addition, payment is only after receipt, that is, they first looked, checked and only then paid. And now they sell everything on the Internet - from clothes to TVs and furniture.

Editor's response 10 days ago

Sonya, hello. This drug for the treatment of joints is really not implemented through pharmacy chain to avoid overpricing. Currently you can only order from Official website. Be healthy!

Sonya 10 days ago

I apologize, I didn’t notice the information about cash on delivery at first. Then everything is fine if payment is made upon receipt. Thank you!!

Margo (Ulyanovsk) 8 days ago

Has anyone tried traditional methods of treating joints? Grandma doesn’t trust pills, the poor thing is in pain...

Andrey A week ago

No matter what folk remedies I tried, nothing helped...

Ekaterina A week ago

I tried drinking a decoction of bay leaves, it didn’t do any good, I just ruined my stomach!! I no longer believe in these folk methods...

Maria 5 days ago

I recently watched a program on Channel One, it was also about this Federal program to combat joint diseases talked. It is also headed by some famous Chinese professor. They say that they have found a way to permanently cure joints and backs, and the state fully finances the treatment for each patient.

The word “arthritis” is of Latin origin and means “ache in the joints.” Its manifestation is often not independent disease. This is a collective term for any damage that may occur to the joints. It can be positioned as an underlying disease, one of them is spondylitis, or manifest itself as a consequence of another disease, for example, rheumatism.

Causes of Elbow Arthritis

Arthritis of the elbow joint is a pathologically developing process in the cartilage tissue or in the capsule of this joint. The disease can lead to limited or complete loss of arm mobility. People who constantly perform heavy physical work are more often affected by this disease. Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. Timely contact with specialists and adequately selected therapy that eliminates symptoms are elements of successful treatment.

Manifestations of diseases are individual in each case. Arthritis of the elbow joint can occur due to one or more of the following reasons:

infection of joint tissues with viruses, fungi or bacteria leads to;
food poisoning can cause esteroarthritis;
one of the types of skin diseases - psoriasis can provoke;
receiving an injury (fracture, dislocation, bruise, frostbite or burn) subsequently often leads to traumatic arthritis;
various autoimmune diseases cause destruction of joint tissue by the immune system;
diseases such as syphilis or rheumatism are accompanied by damage to connective tissues;
metabolic disorders in the body lead to gout;
infection of the respiratory tract, diseases of the genitourinary system can provoke reactive arthritis;
consequence unknown etiology is idiopathic arthritis.

Modern medicine has more than a hundred factors that can cause the development of pathologies leading to arthritis. The symptoms of many of them are the same. To date, the causes of many types of this disease have not been fully elucidated. The disease can be either primary or secondary. For example, a purulent manifestation of pathology is possible due to direct infection during injury. This is the primary form. If the disease develops due to the entry of a virus or streptococcus from neighboring tissues, then this is secondary purulent arthritis.

Arthritis symptoms

The primary symptoms of arthritis are the appearance of pain and stiffness of joint movement, while the temperature in the joint area rises, and sometimes, in advanced cases, the whole body. With such manifestations the best solution will immediate appeal behind medical care. If you diagnose the disease in a timely manner, without waiting for the full clinical picture to appear, treatment is faster and better.

To prevent and treat ARTHRITIS, our regular reader uses the increasingly popular method of NON-SURGERY treatment, recommended by leading German and Israeli orthopedists. After carefully reviewing it, we decided to offer it to your attention.

Other symptoms of the disease are as follows:

Swelling of tissues. It can be expressed in the form of mild swelling, which is difficult to detect by touch, or a pronounced increase in size of the joint.
General weakness and malaise. Often accompanied by an increase in temperature.
Lack of appetite, headaches, and nausea or vomiting. These symptoms appear to varying degrees. It depends on the cause of the inflammatory pathology.

Painful sensations manifest themselves depending on the processes that cause them. In the case of rheumatism, the pain is strong and sharp, and in case of gout, it is dull and aching.

With the infectious, purulent nature of the disease, the symptoms are most pronounced. Severe swelling appears, the skin in the affected area becomes hot and red. Any movement of the joint leads to sharp and severe pain. The disease can manifest itself as a result of a general infection of the body - sepsis. In such cases, accumulations of pus may be found in other joints or places.

Treatment of elbow arthritis

It is necessary to treat arthritis of the elbow joint in a complex manner. Only in this case will the procedure bring maximum effect. The required components for this are as follows:

drug treatment includes intra-articular injections, droppers and blockades;
physiotherapy;
massage and self-massage;
restorative gymnastics.

Only a specialist can decide on what methods to treat a patient based on an examination. At the same time, the patient himself must take into account that during the course of the course any loads are completely contraindicated. For treatment to be effective, the affected elbow joint must be at rest at all times. The course is compiled depending on the stage of development and type of disease, the age and gender of the patient, as well as the characteristics of his body.

The conservative method is most often used. The inflammatory process is relieved with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drugs used for treatment may be in various forms– in the form of tablets, gels, ointments or creams, as well as solutions for intra-articular or intramuscular injections and lotions.

To remove allergic manifestations may be applied antihistamines new generation. If necessary, it is possible to use hormonal drugs and antibiotics. In this case, the main goal of the course of treatment is to influence the disease that caused the inflammatory process in the elbow joint. Such medicines may have certain side effects, affecting the stomach and other organs. In this regard, treatment involves following a diet and using medications to maintain the digestion process or to relieve side symptoms. Only after pain has been eliminated is it possible to move on to physical therapy and use physiotherapy combined with massage. Treatment with these methods is required to prevent muscle atrophy.

Surgery

The use of surgical intervention is required to achieve the following goals:

the need to remove processes from the surface of the bone;
replacement of a part of a joint with implants;
removal of fibrous adhesions, synovial fluid or part of the cavity lining;
complete joint replacement if there are serious indications.

The recovery process may take long time. For example, for tuberculous lesions, excision is performed bursa. The shell is restored over time. In this case, the elbow joint will be able to function as before. However, this requires a long period.

Traditional medicine recipes can help during courses of both treatment and recovery. However, you should resort to this method only if you know the diagnosis accurately. Such recipes include applying compresses, taking decoctions or tinctures, and rubbing with homemade ointments.

In cases where timely conservative treatment was not performed, development in the arm is possible irreversible pathologies. It leads to unpleasant complications and further disability.

Used in the treatment of elbow arthritis conservative methods. This is a course appointment, massage and physiotherapy procedures, exercise therapy. Therapy is aimed at eliminating swelling and restoring range of motion, preventing the progression of arthritis. If conservative treatment is ineffective, patients are indicated for surgical intervention.

General information about the disease

Type of elbow arthritis	Essential medicines	pharmachologic effect
Rheumatoid, juvenile	Etanercept, Infliximab, Adalimumab, Sulfasalazine, Leflunomide	Stopping the inflammatory process, preventing destruction of the elbow joint
Infectious	Amoxiclav, Clarithromycin, Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone, Cefazolin, Metronidazole	Destruction of pathogens of respiratory, intestinal, urogenital infections
Gouty	Colchicine, Probenecid, Sulfinpyrazone, Azapropazone, Benzbromarone	Reduced production of purine bases, dissolution and removal of crystals of uric acid salts
Osteoarthritis	, Artra, Structum, Rumalon, Chondrogard	Partial restoration of cartilage tissue, preventing the spread of the disease

Physiotherapy

Electrophoresis and ultraphonophoresis with anesthetics and NSAIDs are used to eliminate severe pain in acute or subacute arthritis. These procedures are also carried out at the stage of remission using B vitamins and chondroprotectors. For any form of the disease, patients can be prescribed 5-10 sessions of the following physiotherapy procedures:

UHF therapy;
ultraviolet irradiation.

After relief of inflammation, applications with ozokerite and paraffin are used in the treatment of arthritis to improve blood circulation and restore elbow mobility.

Exercise therapy

Physical therapy exercises begin immediately after inflammation and severe pain are eliminated. A physical therapy doctor develops a set of exercises individually for the patient. The first training sessions take place under his guidance, and then you can practice at home. The following exercises are most often included in the complex:

stand up, spread your feet shoulder-width apart, lean forward and clench and unclench your fists 5 times. Return to the starting position, perform the exercise another 5-7 times;
straighten up, spread your legs slightly, make circular rotations with your arms bent at the elbows back and forth. Number of repetitions - 10-15;
kneel down, place your palms on the floor, straighten your back. Do push-ups 7-10 times.

All functions of the joint are restored only with regular, daily training. If painful sensations arise during exercise, you can begin performing the exercises after a long rest.

Surgery

If conservative treatment is ineffective, arthritis progresses rapidly, or complications develop, surgical intervention is indicated. These are synovectomy, arthrotomy, elbow joint resection, cheilectomy, arthroscopy. For patients with grade 3 osteoarthritis, doctors immediately offer the installation of an endoprosthesis, since conservative treatment for severe bone deformation does not make sense.

Endoprosthetics of the elbow joint

Installation of an artificial joint is performed under endotracheal anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision on the back of the elbow, separates and secures the nerve, and cuts the fascia and tendons. After removing the olecranon, an implant is installed and secured with cement or cementless methods.

The surgeon then fixes ulnar nerve in a separate channel, stitches soft fabrics. Rehabilitation begins after 1-2 days. The service life of the endoprosthesis is 10-15 years.

Scar after surgery.

Open synovectomy

Synovectomy of the elbow joint is an arthrotomy operation aimed at removing the pathologically altered synovial membrane. It is performed under general or epidural anesthesia. The surgeon opens the joint, drains its cavity, and treats antiseptic solutions. He then completely or partially excises the synovium. After suturing, the elbow joint is immobilized with a plaster cast.

Traditional methods

In acute and subacute period elbow arthritis are not used due to the high likelihood of increased inflammation. They are used only after treatment or at the stage of stable remission to eliminate mild discomfort. The therapeutic effect of many folk remedies is very questionable, so you should discuss the advisability of such therapy with your doctor.

Clay

2 tablespoons red or black cosmetic clay diluted with low-fat kefir until an elastic mass is formed. Form a cake from it and apply it to the elbow for 1 hour, fixing it with film and gauze bandage. Instead of kefir, you can use any mineral water.

Birch

Young fresh birch leaves are poured with boiling water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and cool. The leaves are applied tightly to the arthritic joint. A plastic film and woolen fabric are placed on top. Secure the treatment bandage with an elastic bandage and leave for 1-2 hours. The leaves can be replaced with fresh birch buds, wrapped in gauze after brewing.

Pine

A handful of fresh or dry pine needles pour a liter of boiling water and leave covered for 2 hours. Strain, heat the infusion to a temperature of 30 °C, dip the elbow in it for half an hour. Wash off the residue with warm water and rub in rich baby cream. To enhance the therapeutic effect, you can add a drop of fir and thyme essential oils to the bath.

Propolis

Bring a glass of low-fat milk to a boil, add a pinch of crushed propolis. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, cool, add a teaspoon of honey. Take 100 ml 2 times a day after meals for a month.

Eggshell

The eggshells are cleaned of films and poured with boiling water for an hour. Dry and grind to a powder. Mix with low-fat sour cream until a thick mass is formed, spread in a thick layer on the elbow. Secure with film and gauze bandage, leave for 4-5 hours or overnight.

Horse sorrel

A dark glass container is filled 1/4 full with peeled and crushed horse sorrel roots. Pour vodka up to the neck or 90% medical alcohol, diluted with an equal amount of water. Leave in a warm place for 2 months, rub into elbows when discomfort occurs.

Dandelion

Fresh dandelion leaves (2-3 handfuls) are ground in a mortar until smooth, add a tablespoon of honey and almond cosmetic oil, 1 drop of essential oils of juniper, eucalyptus and pine. Apply to the elbow, secure with film, thick cloth, elastic bandage, and leave for 1 hour.

Elecampane and honey

50 g of dry elecampane roots are poured with 2 glasses of hot water, simmered under a lid over low heat for 1 hour. Cool, filter, add 3 tablespoons of thick honey. The decoction is stored in the refrigerator and rubbed into sore elbows up to 3 times a day.

Sunflower

A dark glass jar is filled halfway with peeled, crushed sunflower roots. Fill the container 70% ethyl alcohol, leave in a dark place for 1-2 months, shake periodically. Rub into elbows 1-2 times a day, if necessary, pre-dilute with water.

Kvass

A large fresh root is peeled, crushed, mixed with 0.5 liters of white sour bread kvass. Leave in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, strain. Warm it up, moisten a large sterile napkin in the liquid, apply it to the elbow joint for an hour, without insulating it.

Rock salt

2 tablespoons of stone or diluted in a liter of hot water, cool, filter. Soak a woolen cloth in the resulting solution and wrap it around the elbow. The duration of the procedure is 1-2 hours.

Possible complications

If the patient does not seek medical help even with severe symptoms of arthritis, then the inflammatory process affects all joint structures. Due to deformation of the bone surfaces, complete or partial irreversible immobilization of the elbow occurs.

The most severe complications are characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. These are chronic renal failure, myocardial infarction, aortic stenosis, bronchopleural fistulas.

Prevention measures

Prevention of arthritis is the elimination of factors that provoke its development. It is necessary to limit the amount of salt, replace it daily menu smoked meats and confectionery with fresh vegetables and fruits. If necessary, you should lose weight, increase physical activity, and stop drinking alcohol and smoking, which impair the blood supply to the elbow joint with nutrients.