What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow. This type of elbow pain is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm that attach to the elbow.
Tennis elbow is most often seen in people who engage in activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist, such as playing tennis. Other activities that can cause this type of elbow pain include painting, plumbing, carpentry, and typing.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain that radiates from the outside of the elbow to the wrist when performing activities such as gripping, lifting, or twisting. Other symptoms can include:
- Pain when extending the wrist or gripping objects
- Weakness in the arm and wrist
- Tenderness in the elbow and forearm
- Swelling around the elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow and wrist
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse and strain on the muscles and tendons of the forearm that attach to the elbow. This type of injury is most common in people who engage in activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist, such as playing tennis.
Other activities that can cause tennis elbow include:
- Painting
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Typing
- Gardening
Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
A doctor can diagnose tennis elbow based on a physical examination and medical history. An X-ray or MRI may be used to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain.
Treatment of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is usually treated conservatively, with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Physical therapy, such as stretching and strengthening exercises, may also be recommended to help reduce symptoms and improve range of motion.
If these conservative treatments do not provide relief, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tendons.
Prevention of Tennis Elbow
There are several steps you can take to help prevent tennis elbow:
- Take frequent breaks when engaging in activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist.
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises to increase flexibility and strength in the forearm muscles and tendons.
- Use proper technique when performing activities that can strain the elbow and forearm muscles.
- Wear protective gear, such as wrist supports and elbow pads, when engaging in activities that put strain on the elbow and forearm.
- Maintain good posture when performing activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist.
Complications of Tennis Elbow
If left untreated, tennis elbow can lead to permanent damage to the muscles and tendons of the forearm. Other complications of untreated tennis elbow can include:
- Chronic pain
- Limited range of motion
- Weakness in the arm and wrist
- Difficulty performing everyday activities
Will Tennis Elbow Heal On Its Own?
In many cases, tennis elbow will heal on its own with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, in some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to reduce symptoms and improve range of motion.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
The following treatments may be used to help reduce the pain and inflammation of tennis elbow:
- Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.
- Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time several times a day.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises may be recommended to help reduce symptoms and improve range of motion.
- Corticosteroid injections: A doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tendons.
Tips for Preventing Tennis Elbow
In addition to the treatments mentioned above, there are also several steps you can take to help prevent tennis elbow:
- Take frequent breaks when engaging in activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist.
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises to increase flexibility and strength in the forearm muscles and tendons.
- Use proper technique when performing activities that can strain the elbow and forearm muscles.
- Wear protective gear, such as wrist supports and elbow pads, when engaging in activities that put strain on the elbow and forearm.
- Maintain good posture when performing activities that involve repetitive motions of the arm and wrist.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow. This type of elbow pain is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm that attach to the elbow. In many cases, tennis elbow will heal on its own with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. However, in some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to reduce symptoms and improve range of motion. There are also several steps you can take to help prevent tennis elbow, such as taking frequent breaks, performing stretching and strengthening exercises, and wearing protective gear.