Mobilization or total elbow arthtroplasty is indicated for advanced elbow joint osteoarthritis in elderly people. While patients with rheumatoid arthritis and/or those who are retired are suited for total arthroplasty, those still engaged in hard physical work are not. Three patients with limited elbow flexion less than 90 degrees, ages 62, 60, and 73, were treated by mobilization. Three returned their form work without any pain and instability in the elbow joint. Limited elbow flexion, 83, 75, and 80 degrees before operation improved to 140, 122, and 115 degrees three weeks post operatively. Even if advanced, severely deformed elbow joints are observed in elderly patients, and mobilization is recommended for those involved in work requiring hard labor.
