Tennis elbow is the inflammation or micro-tearing of the tendons that combine the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. It is also called lateral epicondylitis. When the tendons and the forearm muscles sustain damage due to repetitive motion, the outside of the elbow becomes tender and painful. Any kind of repetitive motion, such as using tools or painting, can cause the symptoms.
Athletes get the symptoms more often, but people participating in recreational activities requiring repetitive use of forearm muscles can also feel pain. So, repeating certain arm movements may worsen the pain. The dull ache usually turns to constant pain. In several cases, the elbow may feel excessive pain to touch.
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, manifests through a range of symptoms primarily centered around the elbow and forearm. These symptoms can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the extent of the injury to the tendons.
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, manifests through a range of symptoms primarily centered around the elbow and forearm. These symptoms can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the extent of the injury to the tendons. Here are the key symptoms associated with tennis elbow:
1. Pain and Tenderness
2. Radiating Pain
3. Weakness
4.Stiffness
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is primarily caused by the overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. This condition is not limited to tennis players; it can affect anyone who engages in activities that put repetitive or excessive strain on the elbow joint. Here are the main causes of tennis elbow:
Excessive strain on the forearm muscles, often from repetitive motions like gripping or lifting, can lead to tennis elbow by causing tiny tears in the tendon attachments at the elbow.
A sudden increase in activity level can overload the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to inflammation and micro-tears at the elbow, a common cause of tennis elbow.
Poor muscle strength and flexibility in the forearm can lead to improper load distribution during activities, increasing the risk of developing tennis elbow due to stress on the tendons.
Age-related muscle degeneration weakens forearm muscles and tendons, making them more susceptible to injury and strain, thus increasing the risk of developing tennis elbow.
When the pain does not reduce within two weeks, a physical therapist needs to diagnose the condition appropriately to rule out other causes, such as cervical or neural. The therapist assesses the condition thoroughly to determine the muscle functions and joints and recommends suitable measures to improve blood flow to the tendons. Initially, the therapist recommends ice massage, using wearables like braces, straps, and tape for massage, muscle stimulation, and ultrasound. The Therapeutic exercises are:
The risks of tennis elbow are:
Healthcare providers can usually diagnose your tennis elbow by a physical exam. In some cases, you may certain tests, such as:
Tennis elbow can develop from repetitive strain on the forearm tendons, but it’s possible to prevent it with a few precautions:
A cross-training regimen can prevent the condition for people engaged in particular sports that require hitting or high-impact movements. Beginners or people who have not played for a while need to start slow.
When the arms become sore, the body may require a break. Playing sports may involve constant arm movements, resulting in pain. So, taking breaks between the matches is essential.
Exercises, such as wrist flexion and extension exercises that target the forearm muscles, help people stay strong.
The risk of injury and pain increases when the forearm muscles stay idle. Regular exercises can keep the muscles strong and allow them to bear stress. Stretching the muscles up and down, push-ups, arm rotation, and bending or stretching the arm can prevent the pain from worsening quickly.
Check the sports equipment, use a strap when playing, and prevent pain and symptoms.
The condition may not require treatment, but taking OTC pain relievers may ease the pain. When symptoms relate to playing sports, physiotherapy may be essential. The therapists suggest suitable techniques for holding racquets and the steps to consider to avoid stressing the injured tissue. Stretching and strengthening exercises involving the forearm muscles are beneficial. Eccentric exercises like lowering the wrist gradually may also help.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections are an advanced treatment option for tennis elbow, involving the injection of a concentration of a patient's own platelets directly into the affected elbow area. This process aims to stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, potentially accelerating the repair of damaged tendon tissues and reducing pain.
Surgical options for tennis elbow are considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Surgery may involve removing diseased muscle and reattaching healthy muscle back to bone or repairing the torn tendon. The goal is to alleviate pain and restore function to the affected elbow, typically reserved for severe cases.
Consult a doctor if home treatments don't alleviate tennis elbow symptoms after several weeks, if the pain worsens, or if the condition limits your daily activities. Seeking medical advice is crucial for a proper diagnosis, to rule out other conditions, and to receive a tailored treatment plan, possibly including physical therapy or injections.
Embark on a journey to overcome a Tennis Elbow with PhysioTattva's expert guidance. Our tailored approach integrates cutting-edge techniques and personalized rehabilitation, including Tennis Elbow, ensuring a comprehensive recovery. Our expertise helps to navigate your Tennis Elbow recovery effectively, promoting stability and strength. Take the first step towards optimal healing with PhysioTattva's dedicated support and unparalleled commitment to your well-being. Book an appointment today!
Lateral epicondylitis is caused by damage in the forearm muscles and overuse in sports. While racquet games are known to aggravate the condition, several other sports or physical activities may cause the symptoms to worsen. Consulting a professional physical therapist is the best choice.
The best treatment for tennis elbow typically involves a combination of rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and exercises to strengthen and stretch the forearm muscles.
The main cause of tennis elbow is the overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to strain and micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle.
You may have tennis elbow if you experience pain or tenderness on the outside of your elbow, especially when lifting objects, gripping tightly, or extending your forearm.
Yes, tennis elbow can often be treated at home with rest, ice application, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and specific exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles.
You may have tennis elbow if you experience pain or tenderness on the outside of your elbow, especially when lifting objects, gripping tightly, or extending your forearm.
At Physio Tattva, we are committed to bring access to quality physio care through ultra-modern clinics and high-skilled practitioners to all. Our world-class therapists keep a strong focus on patient needs and deliver the highest level of care.
