Diagnostic and therapeutic injection of the elbow region.
Joint injection of the elbow is a useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool for the family physician. In this article, the injection procedures for the elbow joint, medial and lateral epicondylitis, and olecranon bursitis are reviewed. Persistent pain related to inflammatory conditions responds well to injection in the region. Indications for elbow joint injection include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroid injection is an accepted treatment option for medial and lateral epicondylitis. Olecranon bursa aspiration and injection are useful when that bursa is inflamed. The proper techniques, choice and quantity of pharmaceuticals, and appropriate follow-up essential for effective outcomes are discussed.
Cardone
Dennis A
DA
Department of Family Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903, USA. cardonda@umdnj.edu
Tallia
Alfred F
AF
D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002062:Bursitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D004551:Elbow Joint; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D007270:Injections, Intra-Articular / Q000379:methods; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010146:Pain / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013396:Suction / Q000379:methods