Discomfort in the elbow might seem minor at first, but when it begins to interfere with everyday movements, it becomes hard to ignore. From struggling to lift grocery bags to difficulty straightening your arm, persistent elbow issues can be more than just strain. In some cases, they may signal deeper joint problems that require surgical attention. Elbow arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, allows doctors to look inside the joint and treat a variety of conditions with smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less post-operative pain.

But how do you know when it’s time to consult an elbow arthroscopy surgeon in Mumbai? Here are the signs and red flags you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Ongoing Elbow Pain That Doesn’t Go Away

Mild elbow pain from overuse or sports often improves with rest, ice, or physiotherapy. However, if the pain persists for weeks and doesn’t respond to basic treatments, it could point to problems such as cartilage damage, joint inflammation, or loose bone fragments inside the elbow. Arthroscopy can help identify and treat these hidden causes effectively.

2. Swelling, Clicking, or Locking Sensation

Do you notice swelling that won’t subside, or a popping sound when you move your elbow? Some people also experience a “catching” or “locking” of the joint, where the elbow seems to get stuck mid-motion. These symptoms may suggest loose bodies, bone spurs, or damaged cartilage inside the joint. In such cases, knowing when to get elbow surgery is essential to prevent worsening joint damage.

3. Reduced Range of Motion

If you find it difficult to fully bend or straighten your elbow, or if your arm feels stiff, you could be dealing with joint contracture or scar tissue formation. If stiffness is left unchecked, it can gradually reduce your range of motion and make even routine actions difficult. Elbow arthroscopy can release tight tissues and restore normal movement.

4. Elbow Instability or Weakness

The elbow should feel stable during movement. If it feels like it may give out or buckle during use, this could be a sign of ligament damage or chronic instability. Athletes, especially those in contact sports or throwing activities, are at higher risk. A skilled evaluation by the best elbow orthopaedic doctor in Mumbai can help confirm the diagnosis and determine if surgery is required to stabilise the joint.

5. Previous Injury That Hasn’t Healed Properly

Old injuries, especially fractures or dislocations, may leave behind lingering problems like stiffness, instability, or joint degeneration. Conditions such as the “terrible triad” injury a combination of dislocation, radial head fracture, and coronoid process fracture are complex and may not heal fully without surgical intervention. In such cases, a famous elbow specialist may recommend arthroscopy to clean, repair, or reconstruct the damaged structures.

6. Failed Non-Surgical Treatment

Have you tried medications, rest, braces, and physical therapy for months with no lasting relief? When conservative treatments fail to relieve pain or restore function, elbow arthroscopy becomes the next logical step. The procedure can help treat various conditions like tennis elbow, synovitis, or arthritis-related issues that don’t improve with standard care.

What to Expect from Elbow Arthroscopy

Elbow arthroscopy is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia. Through a few small cuts around the elbow, a miniature camera and tools are inserted, enabling the surgeon to see and address the issue inside the joint. Recovery time varies, but most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks, depending on the condition treated and post-operative care.

If you’re in doubt about your symptoms, consulting a specialist early can prevent complications and lead to better outcomes. Dr. Sanesh Tuteja, the best elbow orthopaedic doctor in Mumbai, offers expert evaluation and advanced arthroscopic treatment for elbow issues, helping patients regain pain-free function.

FAQs

Q1: What symptoms indicate elbow instability?
Elbow instability often presents as a feeling that the joint might “give out” during movement. It may be accompanied by clicking, locking, or pain during specific motions like pushing or throwing.

Q2: How serious is a “terrible triad” elbow injury?
The terrible triad injury is considered severe because it involves three major joint components. If not treated correctly often requiring surgery it can lead to long-term stiffness, instability, and arthritis.