What is Tennis Elbow?

Are you experiencing a nagging pain in your elbow that just won’t go away? You might be one of the millions of Americans suffering from tennis elbow, a condition that’s becoming increasingly common in our active, fitness-focused society. But don’t let the name fool you – you don’t have to be a tennis player to fall victim to this debilitating condition.

Imagine the frustration of not being able to enjoy your favorite activities or even perform simple tasks like lifting a coffee mug without experiencing a sharp, shooting pain in your elbow. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, can range from a minor annoyance to a severe, life-altering condition that affects every aspect of your daily life.

But what exactly is tennis elbow, and why is it so prevalent? More importantly, what can you do to find relief and get back to the activities you love? If you’re ready to take control of your elbow pain and start your journey toward recovery, keep reading to learn more about this common yet often misunderstood condition.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that affects the tendon where it connects to the lateral epicondyle, the bony bump on the outer part of the elbow. The lateral epicondyle is part of the long bone that extends from the shoulder to the elbow, and the other end of the tendon is connected to muscles that control wrist movement. 

What are the Causes of Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow may arise due to direct trauma, as many people experience symptoms after hitting their elbow. Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as chopping or turning wrenches, can also lead to tennis elbow. Sometimes, the arm’s quick and forceful twisting motion can trigger the condition. Rheumatoid arthritis is a rare disease that may be associated with tennis elbow, although in most cases, the cause is unknown. Tennis elbow is commonly diagnosed in people aged 30 to 50.

Tennis elbow can cause pain to radiate from the outside of the elbow down to the forearm and wrist or even up the arm. In severe cases, everyday tasks such as shaking hands, turning doorknobs, or holding a cup of coffee can become difficult.

Tennis elbow symptoms often develop gradually and become worse during activity. However, the pain can also start suddenly after a forceful activity or trauma.

What are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Individuals experiencing tennis elbow will typically feel pain or tenderness on the hand’s outer, forearm, or back. The level of discomfort can vary, ranging from slight discomfort when bending or extending the elbow to extreme pain when the elbow is at rest. The pain may come and go and is often aggravated by arm usage or twisting.

Symptoms commonly experienced by people with lateral epicondylitis include pain on the outer upper forearm, beneath the elbow, which may also radiate down the forearm towards the wrist. There may be discomfort or stiffness when lifting, raising, bending, or extending the arm. Pain may also occur when holding or gripping objects like cups or pens and twisting the arm, such as turning a doorknob or opening a can.

What are Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow?

Many people who suffer from tennis elbow can find relief through non-surgical treatments like avoiding heavy activities and resting the arm, which can help alleviate the pain. Some of the treatments include:

  • Rest and activity limitation
  • Braces
  • Steroid and anti-inflammatory pills
  • Steroid injections
  • Physical therapy
  • Platelet-rich plasma injections (although this option is not widely accepted yet). 

Steroid Injections for Tennis Elbow

Steroid injections, when precisely administered to the area experiencing pain—specifically the lateral epicondyle on the outer elbow—have been shown to provide significant relief for those suffering from tennis elbow. 

These injections are particularly effective because they deliver a high concentration of medication directly to the inflamed tissue, reducing inflammation and pain. However, patients need to be aware that while steroid injections can offer rapid relief, their effectiveness may diminish with repeated use over time, and there could be potential side effects. 

It’s recommended to discuss the benefits and risks of steroid injections with your doctor to determine if this treatment is suitable for an individual’s specific condition.

Medications for Tennis Elbow

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be very effective in managing tennis elbow symptoms such as swelling, inflammation, and pain. These medications, including meloxicam, naproxen, and prednisone, reduce the body’s inflammatory response. 

While NSAIDs are available over-the-counter and can provide quick relief, physicians may also prescribe steroid pills as part of the treatment plan for more severe cases. 

Patients should consult with their doctors to identify the most appropriate medication for their specific symptoms and overall health condition.

Physical Therapy for Tennis Elbow

Physical therapy plays a critical role in treating tennis elbow. It focuses on exercises and techniques designed to reduce inflammation, restore arm strength, and prevent future injuries. A physical therapist may employ various methods, including stretching exercises, strengthening activities, ultrasound therapy, and massage, tailored to each patient’s needs. 

Physical therapy’s goal is not only to alleviate current symptoms but also to provide individuals with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition effectively in the long term. Regular sessions combined with a home exercise program can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with tennis elbow.

Other Treatments for Tennis Elbow

In addition to the treatments mentioned above, other strategies can help alleviate the symptoms of tennis elbow. Using elbow pads, wrist splints, or elbow compression straps can support and reduce strain on the affected area, allowing it to heal more effectively. 

These aids can particularly benefit individuals whose daily activities or work tasks exacerbate their symptoms. It’s also worth exploring alternative therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, or shockwave therapy, which have shown promise in relieving pain and promoting healing for some patients. 

As with any treatment plan, individuals need to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most effective combination of therapies for their specific situation.

Should You Get Surgery for Tennis Elbow?

If the pain persists despite several months of treatment, surgery may be considered. The decision to operate is based on the severity of the pain and how it affects normal daily activities. Multiple surgical techniques, all of which involve small incisions, can help with tennis elbow pain. In most cases, an arthroscopic approach may be used. 

If non-invasive treatments prove unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend surgery.

What is Recovery Like After Surgery for Tennis Elbow?

After a surgical procedure, the arm is covered with a bandage. The patient is advised to limit their physical activity. About ten days later, the sutures and bandages are removed. To help restore motion and strength, the patient may undergo physical therapy. Over time, activities that involve the arm gradually increase. Patients typically experience significant improvement after recovery. However, achieving maximum recovery may take up to four to six months.

Next Steps For Tennis Elbow Treatment 

If you’re suffering from consistent elbow pain, talk to an orthopaedist to get a diagnosis and explore suitable treatment options. Don’t let a condition like tennis elbow hinder you from living life to the fullest. Schedule an appointment today with our experienced orthopaedic surgeons at Orlando Orthopaedic Center. We can help you start your journey towards a pain-free life.

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