Performing a proper pushup requires weight on the elbow joint while also bending and extending the joint. If there is stiffness and pain at the elbow, then executing a pushup exercise can be quite bothersome and limit the elbow's range of motion. The two most common causes of elbow stiffness are arthritis and injury. In addition, stiffness can occur after surgery to the joint.
Arthritis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, sets in as we age due to wear and tear and as a result of injury. Arthritis can occur in any of the joints, including the elbow joint. Arthritis involves the breakdown of the protective cartilage within the joint. With reduced cartilage in the joint, the bones rub together. causing pain, inflammation and stiffness.
Injuries
Injuries that can lead to stiffness at the elbow joint include fractures, dislocation, bursitis, golfer's elbow and tennis elbow. According to the Orthosports website, 5 percent of all elbow fractures fail to unite, which can lead to stiffness of the joint. Elbow dislocations commonly occur from a fall on an outstretched hand, resulting in the elbow bones being "knocked" out of position. The trauma and healing process can produce stiffness in the joint. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa or fluid-filled sac that allows the skin to move easily over the bone in the elbow. The pain and stiffness with bursitis become more apparent when bending the elbow beyond 90 degrees or leaning on the elbow. Tennis and golfer's elbow is inflammation of the tissues at the elbow joint either on the medial or lateral side.
Surgery
Surgery may require the elbow joint to remain in a particular position for a period of time. Stiffness can set in with lack of use or limited range of motion. Surgical intervention is usually necessary if the stiffness is caused by arthritis.
Treatment
If the elbow stiffness is due to an injury or from surgery, it can usually be successfully treated without surgery if treatment is initiated early and instructions are followed. Typically after an elbow injury or surgery, the goal is to move the elbow joint as soon as possible as long as it is safe to do so. Sometimes a brace needs to be worn to give the elbow joint some support while doing exercises. Elbow flexion or bending and extension or straightening need to be worked to increase range of motion of the joint. Pushups can be modified to aid in these movements while strengthening the muscles. Wall pushups, pushups off a countertop, and pushups on your knees are some modifications to a workout when there is elbow stiffness and pain.
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