Frozen Elbow

An Overview of Frozen Elbow

The elbow joint is referred to as a “hinge” joint. It bends, straightens, extends—and offers a range of flexion up to 145 degrees. Stiff elbow refers to those individuals who experience pain or problems when extending their elbow greater than 30 degrees. There are many factors that may cause a frozen elbow including arthritis of the elbow, post-traumatic injury, bicep tendon tear, infection, and congenital and degenerative conditions.

Anatomy

The elbow joint is made up of the following three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), ulna (forearm bone on the pinky finger side), and the radius (forearm bone on the thumb side). Ligaments surround the joint to hold it together and prevent dislocation.

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

Symptoms of Stiff Elbow

The major symptoms of frozen elbow are pain and loss of motion. The onset of symptoms may be gradual or sudden, depending on the cause of the condition. In most cases, the elbow will become inflamed and produce pain with movement. This pain will gradually worsen over time and eventually lead to stiffness. As the condition further progresses pain may ultimately improve; however, movement will continue to be limited and difficult.

Are you experiencing symptoms of frozen elbow?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Millett:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review ($250).

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Millett.

Request Case Review or Office Consultation

Treatment for Frozen Elbow

Non-Surgical

There are several treatment options for people experiencing stiff elbow. The goal in treatment is to provide the patient with a pain-free, functional and stable elbow. This means gaining flexion and range of motion. Physical therapy is usually the best course of treatment. Working with a physical therapist, the patient will perform exercises and strengthening techniques to gain flexion, control and motion. Rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and splinting may also be used to help treat the condition.

Surgical

Elbow surgeries are recommended when other frozen elbow treatment alternatives are no longer working. Elbow arthroscopic surgery is usually the best option. During this procedure, Dr. Millett will make several small incisions and insert an arthroscope into the elbow joint. This will allow him to identify loose bodies, fragments and damaged cartilage. Recovery is usually about 3 months. See Arthroscopic Elbow surgery for more details on this procedure.

For additional resources on stiff elbow, or to discuss your treatment options for frozen elbow, please contact the office of Dr. Peter Millett.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!