What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by overuse of the elbow joint. It is common in those who participate in activities that require repetitive motion, such as playing racquet sports, weightlifting, carpentry, or painting. The pain is usually located on the outside of the elbow and can range from mild to severe. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of tennis elbow so that it can be treated appropriately and quickly.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm. The muscles and tendons in the forearm are responsible for extending the wrist and fingers. When these muscles and tendons are used excessively and repetitively, they can become inflamed and cause pain. Activities that involve repetitive gripping, twisting, or reaching can lead to tennis elbow.
Signs and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common signs and symptoms of tennis elbow include:
- Pain – Pain is usually located on the outside of the elbow. It can range from mild to severe.
- Weakness – Weakness in the forearm muscles and tendons may be present.
- Stiffness – The elbow may feel stiff and difficult to move.
- Tenderness – The area around the elbow may be tender to the touch.
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow
If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor will take a detailed history of your symptoms and any activities that may have caused them. They may also perform a physical exam to check for any tenderness or weakness in the forearm muscles.
Imaging Tests
Your doctor may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to get a better look at the elbow joint and its surrounding structures. These tests can help to rule out any other potential causes of your symptoms, such as arthritis or a fracture.
Nerve Tests
Your doctor may also order nerve tests such as an electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction study (NCS). These tests can help to diagnose tennis elbow by measuring the electrical activity in the muscles and nerves of the forearm.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment for tennis elbow is to reduce pain and improve function. The most common treatments include:
- Rest – It is important to rest the affected arm and avoid activities that can make the symptoms worse.
- Ice – Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help to reduce inflammation.
- Medication – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy – A physical therapist can teach you exercises and stretches to help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the forearm.
- Corticosteroid Injections – Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Braces – Wearing a brace can help to provide support to the elbow and reduce pain.
- Surgery – In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged muscles and tendons.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to avoid activities that can cause it. If you must participate in activities that involve repetitive motion, it is important to take frequent breaks and stretch the muscles and tendons in your forearm. It is also important to use proper form and technique, and to not overuse the muscles and tendons. Wearing a brace can also help to provide additional support to the elbow.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to see your doctor. Your doctor can make a proper diagnosis and determine the best treatment option for you. It is also important to see your doctor if your symptoms are severe, or if they have not improved after several weeks of rest and conservative treatments.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is a painful condition caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of tennis elbow so that it can be treated appropriately and quickly. If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Treatment options include rest, ice, medication, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, braces, and in some cases, surgery. The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to avoid activities that can cause it, and to use proper form and technique when participating in activities that involve repetitive motion.