Introduction to Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury affecting the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow. It is caused by repetitively straining the tendons, usually from strenuous activities such as tennis or golf. Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain, tenderness, and weakness in the elbow, forearm and wrist. If left untreated, the pain can become chronic and interfere with everyday activities. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to help reduce the symptoms of tennis elbow and help you get back to your favorite activities.
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Understanding the Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitively straining the tendons in the elbow. This can be from activities such as tennis, golf, or even activities around the house such as painting or hammering. Poor technique and inadequate warm-up can also contribute to the development of tennis elbow. People who are over 40 and those who have weak forearm muscles or poor conditioning are at an increased risk of developing tennis elbow.
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow
In order to diagnose tennis elbow, your doctor will perform a physical examination of your elbow and arm. They will check for tenderness, swelling, and movement. Your doctor may also order an X-ray or MRI to determine the extent of the injury.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Most cases of tennis elbow can be treated without surgery. Non-surgical treatments are the first line of defense against tennis elbow. These treatments can include:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the elbow and avoiding activities that may aggravate the condition is a key part of treating tennis elbow. Your doctor may recommend avoiding activities such as tennis and golf for a period of time.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice to the area can help reduce pain and swelling. Heat therapy can also be used to help relax the muscles and improve circulation.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the elbow. They can also give you advice on proper technique to help prevent the condition from returning.
- Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation.
- Bracing: Wearing a brace can help reduce stress on the elbow and help reduce pain. Your doctor may recommend a brace for a period of time.
Surgical Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
If the condition does not respond to non-surgical treatments, your doctor may suggest surgery. Surgical treatments for tennis elbow can include:
- Arthroscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a tiny camera to look inside the joint and make repairs.
- Tendon Release: This procedure involves cutting the tendon to relieve tension and improve range of motion.
- Tendon Repair: This procedure involves reattaching or repairing the tendon to help reduce pain and improve range of motion.
- Tendon Transfer: This procedure involves transferring a tendon from another area of the body to the elbow to help relieve tension and improve range of motion.
Recovery from Tennis Elbow Surgery
Recovery from tennis elbow surgery can take several months. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your elbow after surgery. Generally, your doctor will recommend rest, physical therapy, and medications to help reduce pain and swelling.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to take steps to avoid straining the elbow. This can include:
- Proper Technique: When engaging in activities such as tennis or golf, make sure to use proper technique to reduce the stress on your elbow.
- Warm-Up: Make sure to warm up and stretch before engaging in strenuous activities.
- Strength Training: Strengthening the muscles in the forearm can help reduce the stress on the elbow.
- Rest: Make sure to take breaks and rest your elbow if it becomes tired or sore.
Alternative Treatments for Tennis Elbow
In addition to the traditional treatments for tennis elbow, there are alternative treatments that may help reduce pain and improve function. These treatments can include:
- Acupuncture: This is a form of Chinese medicine that involves inserting thin needles into the skin. It is believed to help reduce pain and improve circulation.
- Chiropractic: This is a form of therapy that involves manipulating the joints and muscles to help relieve pain and improve function.
- Massage: Massage can help reduce tension in the muscles and improve circulation, which can help reduce pain and improve function.
- Dietary Supplements: Dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience pain and tenderness in your elbow, it is important to see your doctor. Your doctor can determine the cause of the pain and recommend the best treatment for your condition.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are several treatments available to help reduce the symptoms and help you get back to your favorite activities. Non-surgical treatments such as rest and activity modification, ice and heat therapy, physical therapy, medication, and bracing can help reduce the pain and improve function. If the condition does not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be recommended. It is also important to take steps to prevent the condition from returning, such as using proper technique and taking breaks when necessary. If you experience pain and tenderness in your elbow, make sure to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
References
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2020). Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis). Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/tennis-elbow-lateral-epicondylitis
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Tennis Elbow. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/symptoms-causes/syc-20373214?p=1
OrthoInfo. (2020). Tennis Elbow Treatments. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/tennis-elbow-treatments