Introduction
Elbow Plica Syndrome (EPS) is a condition that involves irritation or inflammation of the synovial plica in the elbow joint. It can occur due to repetitive overuse, trauma, or inflammatory conditions affecting the elbow, resulting in further thickening of the synovial membrane. It is commonly mistaken for tennis elbow or can occur together with Tennis elbow symptoms.
Symptoms of Elbow Plica Syndrome
It may include:
Pain or discomfort at the outer aspect of the elbow joint.
Snapping or popping sensation in the elbow during movement.
Occasionally, the plica can become trapped or impinged, causing a feeling of the elbow "locking" temporarily.
Swelling or localised tenderness near the plica.
Limited range of motion or difficulty fully extending or bending (less common) the elbow.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect you have Elbow Plica Syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention from an orthopaedic specialist (Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery). Our doctor will first ask you some questions about your condition, how it currently affects your lifestyle and any associated medical conditions or previous injuries that may have increased your risk of Elbow Plica Syndrome developing. He will then proceed with a careful examination of your elbow, determine the extent of your functional limitation and rule out potential associated conditions. Radiographs (X-Rays) of the elbow joint involved are usually performed. Further imaging with an MRI tends to be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and investigate other potential conditions.
Treatment for Elbow Plica Syndrome will depend on the severity of the condition and presence of associated conditions. Other factors such as age, overall health, functional requirements and activity level may also play a part in the treatment decision.
In mild cases, management is usually non-surgical (conservative) to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation.
This may include:
Resting and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Applying ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy exercises to improve elbow joint strength and flexibility.
In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce inflammation.
If conservative measures fail to provide relief, or if the condition is severe or persistent, minimally invasive (Key-hole/Arthroscopic) surgical intervention may be considered. The surgical procedure aims to remove the inflamed plica to alleviate symptoms and restore normal elbow function.
Conclusion
Elbow Plica Syndrome (EPS) is a condition that involves irritation or inflammation of the synovial plica in the elbow joint. It can manifest with pain and discomfort, swelling, localised tenderness, popping sensation during movement and a feeling of “locking” due to impingement. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for optimal long-term outcomes. If you suspect you have Elbow Plica Syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention from our orthopaedic specialist (Total Orthopaedic Care & Surgery).
Treatment options may include conservative measures such as rest, ice packs, NSAIDs and physical therapy exercises; and minimally invasive (Key-hole) surgical intervention to remove the inflamed plica. Following your orthopaedic specialist’s instructions for treatment and rehabilitation are important for a successful outcome.
