What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow. It is common among tennis players, but it can also affect anyone who performs repetitive arm, hand, or wrist movements.
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The pain associated with tennis elbow is typically felt on the back of the forearm, just below the elbow joint. This pain may become worse when gripping, lifting, or twisting objects. It can also become worse with certain activities, such as playing tennis, typing, or lifting weights.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive activities that put strain on the muscles and tendons of the forearm. These activities may include tennis, painting, carpentry, plumbing, typing, and gardening.
The muscles and tendons of the forearm become overworked and irritated from repetitive movements, leading to pain and inflammation around the elbow. This can cause the muscles and tendons to become weak and inflamed, leading to pain.
What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow. This pain may become worse when gripping, lifting, or twisting objects. Other symptoms may include:
- Weakness in the forearm: Overuse of the forearm muscles can lead to weakness in the arm, making it difficult to grip or lift objects.
- Tenderness: Pain and tenderness may be felt along the outside of the elbow.
- Swelling: Swelling may occur around the elbow joint.
- Stiffness: The elbow may become stiff and have limited range of motion.
How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your activities and symptoms. They may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI to look for signs of damage to the muscles and tendons.
How Is Tennis Elbow Treated?
Tennis elbow is usually treated with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy or a brace to support the elbow.
Rest
Resting the affected arm is important for healing. Avoid any activities that cause pain or discomfort in the elbow.
Ice
Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles and tendons of the forearm. Exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises.
Bracing
Using a brace or wrap can help support the elbow and reduce pain and inflammation. These can be bought over-the-counter or prescribed by your doctor.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
The best way to prevent tennis elbow is to avoid activities that put strain on the forearm muscles and tendons. If you do need to perform these activities, be sure to take breaks and use proper technique.
Take Breaks
Take frequent breaks from any activities that put strain on the forearm muscles and tendons. This will allow the muscles and tendons to rest and recover.
Proper Technique
Using proper technique when performing activities can help reduce strain on the forearm muscles and tendons. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for advice on the best way to perform activities.
Strengthen the Forearm
Doing exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and tendons can help reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow. Ask your doctor or physical therapist for advice on the best exercises to do.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow. It is caused by repetitive activities that put strain on the muscles and tendons of the forearm. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, swelling, and weakness in the forearm. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, pain medications, physical therapy, and bracing. To prevent tennis elbow, it is important to avoid activities that put strain on the forearm muscles and tendons, and to take regular breaks.