The Stiff Elbow

• DOI: 10.1007/s11552-009-9181-z
• Publication Date: 2009-04-06T17:32:17Z
• Authors: Sumon Nandi; Steven Maschke; Peter J. Evans; Jeffrey N. Lawton
• Keywords: Continuous passive motion; Modalities

Elbow motion is essential for upper extremity function to position the hand in space. Unfortunately, elbow joint prone stiffness following a multitude of traumatic and atraumatic etiologies. can be diagnosed with complete history physical exam, supplemented appropriate imaging studies. The stiff challenging treat, thus, its prevention paramount importance. When this approach fails, non-operative followed by operative treatment modalities should pursued. Upon initial presentation those who have minimal contractures 6-month duration or less, static dynamic splinting, serial casting, continuous passive motion, occupational/physical therapy, manipulation are that may attempted. A refractory management treated surgically, either arthroscopically open, eliminate soft tissue bony blocks motion. In future, efforts prevent treat target basic science mechanisms involved. Our purpose was review etiologies, classification, evaluation, prevention, operative, elbow.