What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury of the tendon and muscles around the elbow joint. It causes pain on the outside of the elbow, which is aggravated by activities such as gripping, lifting, or twisting the wrist. It is most commonly seen in athletes who play racquet sports such as tennis, but it can also affect people who perform repetitive arm movements in their work or hobbies.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is caused by a strain or tear in the tendons and muscles of the forearm. This strain can occur from activities that involve repetitive arm movements such as racquet sports, throwing, or gripping tools. Tennis elbow can also be caused by an injury or trauma to the elbow, such as a direct impact or fall.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. The pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation. Other symptoms that may accompany tennis elbow include:
- Weakness in the arm and hand
- Stiffness in the forearm
- Reduced range of motion in the elbow
- Tingling or numbness in the arm and hand
Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
In order to diagnose tennis elbow, your doctor will perform a physical exam of the elbow and forearm. During the exam, they may ask you to move your arm in certain ways to check for pain or tenderness. Your doctor may also order X-rays or an MRI to rule out other conditions such as a fracture or arthritis.
Treatment of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow can usually be treated with conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy or exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons of the forearm. In some cases, medication or injections may be necessary to reduce pain and inflammation. If these measures don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the damaged tendons.
How to Prevent Tennis Elbow
There are several ways to help prevent tennis elbow, including:
- Rest between activities and take frequent breaks
- Stretch the forearm muscles and tendons before and after activities
- Strengthen the muscles of the forearm with exercises
- Use proper form when performing activities that involve the arm
- Wear proper equipment such as gloves or wrist braces
What Happens if Tennis Elbow Goes Untreated?
If tennis elbow is left untreated, the pain and inflammation can worsen over time. This can lead to further damage to the tendons and muscles of the forearm, resulting in decreased strength and flexibility. Without treatment, tennis elbow can become a chronic condition that affects everyday activities such as gripping or lifting objects.
Risk of Complications
The longer tennis elbow goes untreated, the greater the risk of developing complications such as:
- Chronic pain that can last for months or years
- Decreased range of motion in the elbow joint
- Tendon rupture that requires surgery to repair
- Nerve damage that can cause numbness or tingling in the arm
Impact on Quality of Life
If left untreated, tennis elbow can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. The pain and inflammation can make it difficult to perform everyday activities such as gripping or lifting objects. It can also interfere with recreational activities such as playing sports or participating in hobbies.
When to See a Doctor
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience the symptoms of tennis elbow. Early treatment can help reduce pain and prevent further damage to the tendons and muscles of the forearm. Your doctor or physical therapist can provide you with an individualized treatment plan to help relieve pain and restore function.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that can cause pain and inflammation in the forearm. It is most often seen in athletes who play racquet sports, but it can also affect people who use their arms for repetitive activities in their work or hobbies. If left untreated, tennis elbow can lead to further damage to the tendons and muscles, as well as chronic pain and decreased range of motion. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience the symptoms of tennis elbow so that you can get the treatment you need to relieve pain and restore function.