Posttraumatic stiffness in the elbow joint // Посттравматична скованост в лакътната става

The study aims to make a comparative assessment of functional recovery according to the factor "onset of movement" of the elbow joint: on the 14th day (early onset) and after the 30th day (late onset), in cases of already diagnosed post-traumatic elbow stiffness. To achieve the set goal, 90 patients aged between 18 and 70 with clinical data for elbow stiffness were examined. Patients meeting the criteria for inclusion in the study were divided into two groups and followed up at three time intervals: on the first day after immobilisation was removed, on the 15th day, and on the 30th day. Both groups received conservative treatment in the form of physical therapy and rehabilitation. To achieve the set goals, the necessary data—anamnesis (pain, swelling, stiffness, etc.), functional status (inspection, palpation, goniometry), patients complete a short MEPS (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) questionnaire, and assess pain on a visual analogue scale. The results show a statistically significant effect on key indicators such as pain (VAS), range of motion, and functionality (MEPS). The combination of early mobilisation with standardised and comprehensive rehabilitation protocols should be considered an optimal and clinically applicable approach to the treatment of post-traumatic elbow stiffness. This model ensures not only faster and more effective recovery of joint function, but also better quality of life for patients, sustainability of the therapeutic effect over time, and a reduced risk of long-term disability.

Grantor dc:publisher

Medical University of Varna

Year dc:date

2026

Authors dc:creator

• Petkov, Petar
• Петков, Петър

• stiffness
• elbow
• mobilisation
• long-term disability
• Ортопедия и травматология / Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Repository record dc:identifier

http://repository.mu-varna.bg/handle/nls/4423

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.mu-varna.bg:nls/4423