Arthritis in the elbow: Managing pain, stiffness & everyday function
Understanding elbow arthritis
Arthritis in the elbow is less common than in the knees or hips, but when it does occur, it can significantly impact daily life. The elbow is a hinge joint that allows you to bend, straighten and rotate your forearm—movements we rely on for simple everyday tasks like typing, carrying groceries or lifting objects.
When arthritis affects the elbow, it can cause inflammation, stiffness and pain that make even small movements difficult or uncomfortable.
Types of elbow arthritis
The two most common forms are:
Osteoarthritis – caused by gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in the elbow joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joint, leading to inflammation.
Both types can lead to reduced range of motion, swelling, pain and difficulty using the arm.
Common symptoms
A dull, aching pain that worsens with movement or activity
Warmth or swelling around the elbow
Locking, grinding or catching sensations in the joint
Difficulty fully bending or straightening the arm
Reduced grip strength or weakness in the hand and forearm
Over time, these symptoms may worsen and limit your ability to complete daily tasks.
What causes elbow arthritis?
Several factors can contribute to arthritis developing in the elbow, including:
Repetitive use or overuse – common in athletes (such as golfers or tennis players), manual workers or anyone doing repetitive lifting.
Previous injuries – fractures, dislocations or repetitive microtrauma can speed up joint wear.
Autoimmune conditions – such as rheumatoid arthritis, which causes immune-driven inflammation.
Ageing – natural wear and tear, cartilage thinning and reduced joint lubrication over time.
How chiropractic care can help
Chiropractic care, combined with functional movement, can help improve joint motion and reduce stress on the elbow. Treatment may include:
Gentle mobilisations of the elbow, shoulder and wrist
Soft tissue therapy to ease tight or overworked muscles
Postural and ergonomic assessments to correct imbalances affecting the elbow
Modifying daily tasks or activities to reduce strain on the joint
A personalised care plan that supports your goals and helps your body recover naturally
At-home tips to support recovery
Gentle mobility exercises – slow bending and straightening of the elbow to maintain movement
Heat therapy – warm compresses can help reduce stiffness
Ice therapy – to calm inflammation and pain
Watch your posture – keep shoulders relaxed and wrists neutral
Stay active – light resistance training and stretching can help strengthen and support the muscles around the elbow
When to seek help
It’s important to seek professional advice if:
Pain is stopping you from working, exercising or completing daily tasks
Symptoms are getting worse with activity
Pain or stiffness lasts longer than two weeks
Early treatment can slow progression, reduce pain and prevent compensatory issues in the shoulder, wrist or neck.
Final thoughts
Elbow arthritis doesn’t mean giving up the activities you love. With the right approach—hands-on care, targeted rehab exercises and small changes to daily habits—most people experience noticeable improvements in comfort and mobility.
If your elbow pain or stiffness isn’t settling, a thorough assessment can help identify the cause and guide a tailored treatment plan that supports your long-term health and function.
Disclaimer: This article is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.