Tennis Elbow

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players and can occur in anyone who engages in activities that involve repetitive arm and wrist extension movements.
 
The condition is caused by overuse or repetitive strain of the muscles and tendons in the forearm that attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow called the lateral epicondyle. These muscles and tendons are responsible for extending the wrist and fingers.
 
Common causes of tennis elbow include playing tennis, hence the name, as well as other activities such as painting, typing, gardening, using hand tools, and certain sports that involve repetitive arm motions. The repetitive stress placed on the tendons can cause small tears or inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of tennis elbow typically include:

1. Pain on the outside of the elbow that may radiate down the forearm
2. Weakened grip strength
3. Difficulty performing activities that involve gripping or lifting objects

 
The pain is often worsened with activities that involve bending or extending the wrist, such as shaking hands or turning a doorknob.
 
Treatment for tennis elbow typically involves a combination of rest, activity modification, pain management, and physiotherapy. Resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that exacerbate the symptoms is crucial. Applying ice, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and using elbow braces or straps can help reduce pain and inflammation.
 
Physical therapy exercises are often recommended to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to alleviate severe pain and inflammation. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary and is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.
 
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you suspect you have tennis elbow or are experiencing persistent elbow pain. To book in for an initial physiotherapy assessment session to begin your own individualised rehab plan, please contact us by phone on 02031120119, by email on ergotechealth@gmail.com or via WhatsApp on +447960380053.