Elbow Arthritis Treatment in Singapore

Appointments by prior arrangement

Introduction

Elbow arthritis can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion, affecting daily activities such as eating, dressing and lifting.

Although less common than arthritis in the knee or hip, elbow arthritis can significantly impact function, particularly in active individuals or those with prior injuries.

As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries, Dr Puah provides comprehensive treatment for elbow arthritis, with a focus on restoring motion and improving quality of life.

What is Elbow Arthritis?

Elbow arthritis refers to degeneration of the cartilage within the elbow joint. Over time, this can lead to:

• Loss of smooth joint movement
• Formation of bone spurs (osteophytes)
• Joint stiffness and pain

Causes of Elbow Arthritis

Elbow arthritis may develop due to:

• Wear and tear over time (osteoarthritis)
• Previous injuries such as fractures or dislocations
• Repetitive use or heavy loading
• Inflammatory conditions e.g. rheumatoid arthritis

Symptoms

Patients with elbow arthritis may experience:

• Pain during movement or at the end range
• Stiffness, particularly when straightening or bending the elbow
• Locking or catching sensations
• Reduced range of motion
• Difficulty performing daily activities

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should seek evaluation if:

• Elbow stiffness is progressively worsening
• Pain interferes with daily function
• You are unable to fully straighten or bend the elbow
• Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment

Early or mild cases may be managed with:

• Physiotherapy
• Activity modification
• Pain management strategies
• Targeted injections (when appropriate)

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered when symptoms persist or function is significantly affected.

Elbow Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive surgery may be used to:

• Remove bone spurs
• Clear loose bodies
• Improve joint movement

👉 Learn more about elbow arthroscopy

Arthroscopic Osteocapsuloplasty

In patients with stiffness and mechanical blockage, this advanced procedure may be performed to:

• Remove osteophytes
• Release tight joint capsule
• Restore range of motion

👉 Learn more about osteocapsuloplasty

Other Surgical Options

In more advanced cases, additional procedures may be discussed depending on the severity and patient needs.

Surgery for elbow arthritis is commonly performed by an elbow specialist.

Recovery

Recovery depends on the severity of arthritis and type of treatment. Following surgery, rehabilitation is important to maintain range of motion and restore function.

Outcomes

With appropriate treatment, patients can expect:

• Reduced pain
• Improved range of motion
• Better ability to perform daily activities

If you are experiencing elbow pain or stiffness that is affecting your daily activities, early assessment can help guide treatment.

Book a consultation or contact the clinic to discuss your condition.

Why Choose Dr Puah Ken Lee

• Specialist in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries
• Fellowship-trained in advanced arthroscopic techniques
• Focus on evidence-based, patient-specific treatment
• Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena

Dr Puah is regularly invited to teach elbow surgery internationally

Book a Consultation

Book a consultation or contact the clinic via WhatsApp to discuss your elbow condition.

Book a consultation at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena

Elbow conditions are common but treatable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and prevent long-term problems.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients with persistent elbow symptoms are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation.