Prevention and treatment of elbow stiffness.
The elbow is as prone to stiffness as it is essential for upper-extremity function. The elbow is a highly constrained synovial hinge joint that frequently becomes stiff after injury. Elbow contracture is challenging to treat, and therefore prevention is of paramount importance. When this approach fails, nonoperative followed by operative treatment modalities can be pursued. In the future, efforts to prevent and treat elbow stiffness may target the basic science mechanisms involved.
Evans
Peter J
PJ
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic and Rheumatologic Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. evansp2@ccf.org
Nandi
Sumon
S
Maschke
Steven
S
Hoyen
Harry A
HA
Lawton
Jeffrey N
JN
D000844:Ankylosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000379:methods; D003286:Contracture / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000601:surgery*; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D009999:Ossification, Heterotopic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000601:surgery*; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011859:Radiography; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D013165:Splints; D000092464:Elbow Injuries