Question
Hello,
I am 20 and I have recently been diagnosed with severe osteoarhtritis in my
right elbow.  I have already had arthroscopic surgery 2 years ago to remove
loose bodies but there is already no cartilage left.  I have been told there is
nothing else to do until I am old enough to have an elbow replacement.  I am
very active and I currently play basketball in college.  I also have very little
range of motion and the pain is so bad sometimes that I can't even take notes
in class.  I am taking glucosamine but it doesn't really seem to be helping.  I
was wondering if there maybe another solution to help deal with the pain.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Since October of last year, the FDA has approved 'Joint Resurfacing' which is much less invasive than replacement. Right now they are incredibly successful with hip and knee, it won't be long until any joint can be new again with this latest revolution. I would check University of Chicago to see if they have done elbows yet. The days of replacement are almost gone, the recoup time with resurfacing is a few days vs. months. Hang in there, nothing else can be done if you have no cartilage left to 'seed'.


Your feedback helps me refine my expertise and helps to guide future questioners.

Thank you Nicole and good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com