What is the main cause of tennis elbow?

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury of the elbow caused by repetitive motions of the arm. It is a type of tendonitis that affects the tendons in the elbow, causing pain and discomfort. The condition is most common in athletes who play racquet sports such as tennis, squash, and badminton, but it can also affect anyone who engages in repetitive motions of the arm and elbow.

Signs and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain when extending the arm, such as when shaking hands or opening a door
• Weakness in the arm or wrist when gripping or grasping objects
• Aching or burning sensation in the elbow or forearm
• Stiffness in the elbow or arm
• Swelling on the outside of the elbow

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm and elbow. The most common cause of tennis elbow is repetitive motions of the arm, such as playing sports or doing certain types of work, such as plumbing or carpentry.

Repetitive Motion Injuries

Repetitive motion injuries are the most common cause of tennis elbow. These injuries occur when the same motions are repeated over and over again, causing the muscles and tendons in the elbow to become overworked and strained. Common causes of repetitive motion injuries include:

• Playing sports such as tennis, squash, or badminton
• Doing certain types of work such as plumbing or carpentry
• Doing activities that require repetitive motions such as typing or using a mouse

Poor Technique

Poor technique can also be a cause of tennis elbow. Poor technique can cause the muscles and tendons in the elbow to become overworked and strained. Common causes of poor technique include:

• Using an incorrect grip on a racquet or other object
• Using too much force when playing a sport or doing an activity
• Using improper form when engaging in activities such as throwing, swinging, or lifting

Incorrect Equipment

Incorrect or poorly-fitting equipment can also be a cause of tennis elbow. Poorly-fitted equipment can cause the muscles and tendons in the elbow to become strained and overworked. Common causes of incorrect equipment include:

• Using a racquet that is too heavy or too light for your skill level
• Using a racquet with an incorrect grip size
• Using a racquet with strings that are too loose or too tight
• Using a racquet with an incorrect string pattern

Treatment for Tennis Elbow

Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. Other treatments may include physical therapy, splinting, and surgery.

Rest

Rest is the most important part of treating tennis elbow. Resting the affected area allows the muscles and tendons to heal and recover. It also reduces the risk of further injury.

Ice

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce inflammation and pain. These medications should be taken as directed by your doctor.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the elbow and reduce pain. Physical therapy exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises.

Splinting

Splinting can help reduce pain by taking pressure off of the elbow joint. It can also help with healing by keeping the elbow in a neutral position.

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended in severe cases of tennis elbow. Surgery can help repair damaged tendons and ligaments in the elbow.

Preventing Tennis Elbow

The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to avoid activities that cause repetitive motion injuries. It is also important to use proper technique when playing sports or doing activities that require repetitive motions.

Warm-up and Stretch

Before engaging in any activity that requires repetitive motions, it is important to warm up and stretch. Warming up and stretching helps prepare the muscles and tendons for activity and reduces the risk of injury.

Use Proper Technique

Using proper technique can help reduce the risk of injury. It is important to use the correct grip when playing racquet sports or using any object that requires gripping. It is also important to use proper form when engaging in activities such as throwing, swinging, or lifting.

Use Proper Equipment

Using the proper equipment can help reduce the risk of injury. It is important to use racquets that are the correct size, weight, and string pattern for your skill level. It is also important to make sure the strings are not too tight or too loose.

Take Breaks

Taking breaks during activities that require repetitive motions can help reduce the risk of injury. It is important to take regular breaks to give the muscles and tendons in the elbow a chance to rest and recover.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury of the elbow caused by repetitive motions of the arm. The most common cause of tennis elbow is repetitive motion injuries, poor technique, and incorrect equipment. Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to avoid activities that cause repetitive motion injuries, use proper technique, use proper equipment, and take regular breaks.