Total Elbow Replacement Advice

Hi everyone,

I'm soon to be 33 yrs old and due to have a total elbow replacement on my right (dominant) arm through the NHS. I work in an admin job where I use a computer most of the day, and I'm looking for advice on what to expect-especially around recovery and time off work.

I have arthritis in my right dominant elbow and a fixed flexion deformity, so I can't straighten my arm. and the pain has made everyday really difficult.

I'd love to hear from anyone who's had elbow replacement surgery, especially:

▪︎ How long was recovery, and when did you feel able to use your arm again?

▪︎ How much time off work did you take (especially if your job involved typing)?

▪︎ Did you see improvements in mobility and pain after the surgery?

▪︎ Any NHS-specific advice-like physio timelines, or things you wish you'd known?

▪︎ If you were on methotrexate, how did your team manage it around the surgery?

Feeling a bit nervous but trying to go in well-informed. Any tips, experiences, or encouragement would be really appreciated!

Thanks in advance xxx

Thanks in advance