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Tennis Elbow



Definition

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow and arm. It is a type of overuse injury that is common among people who participate in activities that involve repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements, such as playing tennis, but it can also occur in people who do not play sports. 

Causes of Tennis Elbow

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of tennis elbow, including:

Repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements: Tennis elbow is commonly caused by activities that involve repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements, such as playing tennis or other racquet sports, but it can also be caused by other activities that involve similar movements, such as painting, carpentry, or typing.

Poor technique: Using poor technique or improper form when performing activities that involve repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.

Overuse: Participating in activities that involve repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements for long periods of time without adequate rest can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.

Age: The risk of developing tennis elbow increases with age, as the tendons and muscles in the forearm become less flexible and more prone to injury.

Previous injury: A previous injury to the elbow or arm can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow

Sign and Symptoms

The main symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, which may also radiate down the forearm. Other signs and symptoms of tennis elbow may include:

  • ‌Weakness in the muscles of the forearm and wrist
  • ‌Pain when gripping objects, such as a pen or a coffee cup
  • ‌Pain when twisting the wrist or forearm
  • ‌Difficulty extending the wrist or fingers
  • ‌Swelling or tenderness in the elbow

Medical Management of Tennis Elbow

The primary treatment for tennis elbow is rest and physical therapy. Some specific medical management strategies that may be recommended by a healthcare provider include:

  • ‌Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • ‌Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
  • ‌Bracing or taping to support the affected area.
  • ‌Extracorporeal shock wave therapy to stimulate healing.
  • ‌Surgery in severe cases that do not respond to other treatments.

It is important to follow the treatment plan recommended by a healthcare provider and to avoid activities that may worsen the condition. Most cases of tennis elbow can be managed with conservative treatment and resolve within a few months  

Physiotherapy Management

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis. A physical therapist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that may include:

  • ‌Stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
  • ‌Strengthening exercises to improve the strength and endurance of the muscles and tendons in the elbow.
  • ‌Massage therapy to help reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area.
  • ‌Ultrasound therapy to help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.
  • ‌TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) to help reduce pain.
  • ‌Dry needling to help reduce muscle tension and improve muscle function.


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