Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not just limited to tennis players and can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions with their forearm and wrist.

Causes

Tennis elbow is caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outer part of the elbow. This can be caused by a variety of activities, including:

Playing racquet sports such as tennis or squash
Using hand tools or gripping objects with repetitive force, such as gardening tools or a computer mouse
Participating in activities that involve repetitive wrist extension or rotation, such as painting or cooking

Symptoms

The symptoms of tennis elbow can vary in severity, but typically include:

Pain or tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
Weakness in the affected arm or wrist
Pain or discomfort when gripping or lifting objects
Stiffness or decreased range of motion in the elbow

Diagnosis

To diagnose tennis elbow, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination of the affected elbow and ask about the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI may also be ordered to rule out other conditions that may be causing the pain.

Treatment

The treatment for tennis elbow depends on the severity and duration of the condition, as well as the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Treatment options may include:

Rest, ice, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the forearm and wrist
Use of a brace or splint to limit movement and reduce strain on the affected tendons
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain
Surgery in severe cases where conservative treatments have not been effective. Surgical options may include removal of damaged tissue or repair of the affected tendons.