Panner Disease: What It Is and How It Is Treated

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr NVS Vinay , Orthopedics

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Panner's disease is a rare condition that affects the elbow joint, particularly in children and adolescents. It is a type of osteochondrosis that primarily affects the developing capitellum of the elbow, leading to potential issues with bone development and joint function.

This condition can cause discomfort, limited mobility, and difficulty with daily activities that involve the affected elbow. Panner's disease often improves as the bone continues to develop, particularly with appropriate activity modification and conservative treatment.

What are the Types of Panner's Disease?

Panner's disease does not have well-established clinical subtypes. It is generally classified based on the stage and severity of changes affecting the capitellum rather than into separate types.

Early-stage disease: Reduced blood supply to the developing capitellum can cause pain and changes in the bone.
Progressive-stage disease: Continued changes in the capitellum may result in fragmentation or flattening of the affected bone.
Healing stage: The affected bone may gradually remodel and recover as the child continues to grow.

What are the Symptoms of Panner's Disease?

Panner's disease primarily affects children and adolescents. It involves changes in the developing elbow joint and may cause pain and restricted movement in the affected arm.

Pain in the elbow
Swelling around the elbow
Limited range of motion in the affected arm
Tenderness in the elbow joint
Difficulty moving the elbow

What are the Causes of Panner's Disease?

The exact cause of Panner's disease is not fully understood. It is believed to involve reduced blood supply to the developing capitellum, along with repetitive stress on the elbow joint.

Other factors that may contribute to the condition include overuse injuries, sports activities involving throwing or repetitive elbow movements, and trauma to the developing elbow.

Overuse or repetitive stress on the elbow
Trauma or injury to the elbow
Reduced blood supply to the developing bone in the elbow
Repetitive throwing or other activities that place stress on the elbow

When to See a Doctor for Panner's Disease?

Consult a pediatric orthopedic doctor or orthopedic specialist if a child develops persistent elbow pain or movement problems. These specialists can evaluate the developing elbow and recommend appropriate treatment.

Persistent elbow pain during activity or rest
Swelling or tenderness around the elbow
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Elbow pain that interferes with sports or daily activities

Get medical help immediately if:

Severe pain or inability to move the elbow
Sudden swelling after an injury
Symptoms worsen despite rest or treatment

These symptoms may indicate a significant elbow injury or another condition requiring prompt medical evaluation.

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How Is Panner's Disease Diagnosed?

Panner's disease is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Doctors assess symptoms such as elbow pain and limited range of motion and examine the affected joint.

Physical Examination: Evaluates pain, tenderness, swelling, and range of motion in the elbow.
X-ray Imaging: Helps identify changes in the capitellum and assess the stage of the condition.
MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging can provide detailed images of the bone, cartilage, and surrounding soft tissues.
CT Scan: May be used when more detailed information about the bone structure is required.
Blood Tests: May occasionally be performed to rule out other conditions when the diagnosis is uncertain.

What are the Treatment Options for Panner's Disease?

Panner's disease usually improves with conservative treatment because the affected elbow is still developing. Treatment focuses on reducing stress on the joint, controlling pain, and maintaining appropriate movement while the bone heals.

Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding throwing, heavy lifting, and other activities that worsen symptoms can reduce stress on the elbow and support healing.
Immobilization: A splint or brace may sometimes be recommended for a short period to support the elbow and reduce strain.
Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can help maintain or improve elbow range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the joint.
Pain Management: Appropriate pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medicines may be recommended by a healthcare professional.
Surgery: Surgery is rarely required and may be considered if symptoms persist or if another structural elbow problem is identified.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Panner's disease?

Panner's disease, also known as osteochondrosis of the capitellum, is a rare condition that affects the developing elbow joint in children, causing damage to the cartilage and bone.

2. What are the symptoms of Panner's disease?

Symptoms of Panner's disease may include elbow pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Children may also experience tenderness around the affected elbow.

3. How is Panner's disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Panner's disease typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI, and ruling out other possible causes of elbow pain in children.

4. What are the treatment options for Panner's disease?

Treatment for Panner's disease usually involves rest, activity modification, pain management with NSAIDs, physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength, and in severe cases, surgery may be considered.

5. Is Panner's disease a long-term condition?

In most cases, Panner's disease resolves on its own as the child grows and the elbow matures. With proper treatment and management, long-term complications are rare.