Tennis Elbow (Aka Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow is typically caused by an overuse injury of the common extensor tendon as it attaches to the outside of the elbow. Tennis elbow occurs due to repetitive stress of the tendon which results in microscopic tears that cause the elbow tendon to become painful and inflamed. Tennis elbow can be the result of racket sports, everyday repetitive activities or manual labor. Symptoms of tennis elbow are characterized as aching pain to over a specific point at the outside of the elbow. Pain usually occurs when lifting an object with an extended wrist, shaking people’s hands or keyboarding. The diagnosis of tennis elbow can be made with physical examination by a physician and usually confirmed with an MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have tennis elbow.
- Rest and avoidance of the offending activity is fundamental in the treatment of tennis elbow.
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
- A forearm strengthening & stretching program can reduce the chances of developing tennis elbow
- A Tennis elbow strap or Wrist Brace may be used during activity to aide in the treatment of tennis elbow