Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that affects the tendons in the elbow joint. It is caused by repetitive activities, such as playing tennis, that strain or stress the tendons and muscles in the forearm. Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow and forearm, difficulty gripping objects, and weakness when extending the wrist.
Who is at Risk for Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is most commonly seen in people who play racquet sports, such as tennis and squash, as well as golfers and baseball players. People who have jobs that involve repetitive motions, such as painting, typing, or carpentry, are also at risk for developing tennis elbow.
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow
In order to diagnose tennis elbow, a doctor will ask questions about the patient’s medical history and activities. The doctor may also perform a physical exam to look for swelling and tenderness in the elbow and forearm. The doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain.
Tests for Tennis Elbow
Once the diagnosis of tennis elbow has been made, the doctor may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include:
1. Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Musculoskeletal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the elbow and forearm. The test can detect any swelling, tears, or other abnormalities in the area.
2. Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) Test
The NCV test measures how quickly electrical signals move through the nerves in the arm and hand. This test can help diagnose nerve damage in the elbow and forearm, which can be caused by tennis elbow.
3. Electromyography (EMG)
An EMG test measures the electrical signals in the muscles. The test can detect any abnormalities in the muscles, such as inflammation or tears, which can be caused by tennis elbow.
4. Blood Tests
Blood tests can measure levels of certain substances in the blood, such as inflammatory markers or enzymes. These tests can help the doctor assess the severity of the condition and determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow
Treatment for tennis elbow depends on the severity of the condition. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation. Treatment options include:
1. Rest
Rest is an important part of the treatment for tennis elbow. The patient should avoid any activities that aggravate the elbow until the pain and inflammation have subsided.
2. Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice and heat therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Heat can be applied for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections can also be used to reduce inflammation in the elbow joint.
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the elbow and forearm. The physical therapist may also recommend stretching exercises to help improve flexibility.
5. Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn tendon or other damage caused by tennis elbow. Surgery is usually only recommended if other treatments have failed to relieve the symptoms.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow can be prevented by avoiding activities that place repetitive strain on the elbow and forearm and by stretching and strengthening the muscles in the area. It is also important to use proper technique when playing racquet sports or participating in other activities that may cause strain on the elbow.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any pain or tenderness in your elbow or forearm, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend the best course of treatment. It is also important to see a doctor if you experience any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm or hand, as this may be a sign of nerve damage.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that affects the tendons in the elbow joint. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and weakness in the elbow and forearm. Diagnosis of tennis elbow is made through a combination of medical history and physical exam, as well as imaging tests and other tests. Treatment for tennis elbow includes rest, ice and heat therapy, medications, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. To prevent tennis elbow, it is important to avoid activities that place repetitive strain on the elbow and to use proper technique when participating in sports or other activities that may cause strain on the elbow. If you experience any pain, tenderness, or weakness in your elbow or forearm, it is important to see a doctor.