Arthroscopic Stiff Elbow release and Botox

A stiff elbow can be a debilitating problem, making it hard to perform everyday tasks like reaching, lifting, or using a computer. When conservative measures fail, surgery to release the scar tissue and tightened structures is often needed. This pilot study is exploring whether injecting botulinum toxin (Botox) into the biceps and brachialis muscles immediately before the surgical release might lead to a greater improvement in elbow movement afterward. The idea is that temporarily relaxing these muscles with Botox at the time of surgery may allow the elbow to move more freely during the critical early recovery period, before the muscles tighten again in response to the procedure. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Botox or a placebo injection before their surgery, and outcomes including range of motion and patient-reported function will be measured and compared. You may be eligible if you are aged 18 to 60, experience elbow stiffness, pain at the end of range of motion, or mechanical symptoms that suggest a physical block to movement. You would not be eligible if you have a history of botulism, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage affecting the limbs), or myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune condition affecting muscle control).