Neuromuscular diseases of the elbow
Introduction to the topic
The elbow joint is crucial for everyday activities such as eating, dressing and personal hygiene. Neuromuscular disorders can significantly impair its function, resulting in restricted movement, pain and a reduced quality of life. This article discusses the most common neuromuscular disorders of the elbow, available treatment options and surgical interventions to improve patient care.
Understanding neuromuscular diseases of the elbow
Neuromuscular diseases affect muscle control due to damage or malfunction of the nervous system. This can lead to muscle weakness, spasticity and contractures, causing joint deformities and limited mobility. In many cases, the elbow joint is affected, making everyday movements such as extending or bending the arm difficult.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to control symptoms and avoid further complications. Treatment ranges from physiotherapy to surgery to improve joint function and mobility.
Types of neuromuscular diseases of the elbow
Infantile cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disorder caused by brain damage before, during or shortly after birth. A common manifestation of CP in the upper extremities is elbow flexion contracture, in which the elbow joint remains permanently flexed.
Infantile cerebral palsy
Infantile cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disorder caused by brain damage before, during or shortly after birth. A common manifestation of CP in the upper extremities is elbow flexion contracture, in which the elbow joint remains permanently flexed.
Causes: Brain damage due to infection, lack of oxygen or premature birth.
Symptoms: Spastic muscle cramps, involuntary movements and restricted joint mobility.
Effects: Children with elbow flexion contracture have difficulty eating, dressing and grooming themselves.
Surgical treatment: Lengthening of the biceps tendon, release of the thickened aponeurosis and removal of the joint capsule to improve mobility.
Congenital plexus palsy
This condition occurs when the brachial plexus, a nerve plexus that controls the arm, is injured at birth. This can lead to muscle weakness, paralysis and joint deformities.
Symptoms: Weak arm, limited extension of the elbow, muscle imbalance between biceps and triceps.
Functional limitations: Patients have difficulty lifting objects or reaching for their mouth.
Surgical approach: If conservative treatments are not sufficient, tendon lengthening and capsular release can improve mobility.
Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita
This disease is characterized by multiple joint contractures due to abnormal muscle development.
Characteristics: Stiff joints, underdeveloped muscles, limited mobility from birth.
Involvement of the elbow: The joint may be fixed in flexion or extension, severely limiting arm use.
Surgical treatment: Lengthening of the triceps tendon, capsular release and muscle transfers to improve mobility.
Treatment options
Conservative therapies
For mild cases, non-surgical treatments can relieve symptoms and improve mobility.
- Physiotherapy: stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain joint mobility.
- Splints and orthoses: Support the correct joint positioning.
- Botulinum toxin injections: Temporary reduction of muscle spasticity.
Surgical interventions
If conservative therapies are not sufficient, the following surgical procedures can help:
- Tendon lengthening: Enables greater elbow extension.
- Capsule removal: Removal of the thickened joint capsule to improve mobility.
- Muscle transfers: Repositioning of muscles to restore function.
- Joint reconstruction: correction of severe deformities to restore arm function.
Advantages of surgical treatments compared to other methods
- Permanent improvement: surgery corrects joint deformities in the long term.
- Extended mobility: Restoration of a greater range of motion.
- Better quality of life: More independence and functionality in everyday life.
Success rates and case studies
Studies show high success rates for surgical interventions, with significant improvement in joint function and quality of life for patients.
Frequently asked questions
Complications are rare, but can include infection or nerve damage.
Usually 6-8 weeks with physiotherapy.
Yes, it is essential for optimum results.
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