Condition guide
Scar Tissue or Adhesions After Elbow Surgery - Overview
Scar tissue can contribute to stiffness after elbow surgery, but bone changes, swelling and the original injury can also restrict movement. Assessment focuses on why bending, straightening or turning the forearm is limited, rather than assuming every stiff elbow has adhesions.
Symptoms
- Difficulty bending or straightening the elbow
- Reduced forearm rotation, such as turning the palm upwards
- Pain or tightness during movement
- Difficulty using the arm for everyday tasks
Causes & Risk Factors
- Healing after an elbow operation or the preceding injury
- Scar tissue or bony obstacles affecting movement
- Periods of restricted movement needed to protect the operated elbow
Diagnosis
- Review of the operation, surgical restrictions and progress since surgery
- Examination of elbow and forearm movement and how the arm is used
- Surgeon-selected imaging when needed to investigate a persistent movement block
Effective Treatment Options
- A movement programme matched to the operation and surgeon's instructions
- Progressive elbow and forearm strengthening when permitted
- Care of a fully healed skin scar if advised by the treating team
- Surgical review for persistent restriction; release procedures depend on the identified cause
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have elbow stiffness after surgery?
Recovery varies with the procedure and original injury. Swelling and healing tissues can limit movement, while persistent restriction may have soft-tissue or bony causes. Review progress with your surgeon or therapist rather than forcing the joint or assuming adhesions are responsible.
Can physiotherapy break down scar tissue?
Physiotherapy aims to improve movement, strength and arm function within surgical precautions. This is different from promising to break or remove internal scar tissue. Any skin-scar massage should wait until the wound is fully healed and your treating team considers it appropriate.
Sources and further reading
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