What is tennis elbow treatment?

Exploring the Different Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an extremely common injury caused by repetitive motions of the wrist, elbow, and arm. It is often seen in those who play racquet sports, such as tennis, and it can be very painful and debilitating. Fortunately, there are a few different treatment options available for managing this condition.

Rest

The first and most important step in treating tennis elbow is rest. Resting the arm allows the injured muscles and tendons to heal and prevents further damage. It is important to take a break from any activities that cause pain, and it is also helpful to use a wrist brace to limit movement. It is also important to avoid any activities that involve repetitive wrist and arm motions.

Ice

Using ice to reduce inflammation and pain is another important part of treating tennis elbow. Ice can be applied directly to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. It is important not to apply ice directly to the skin and to use a thin cloth or towel between the ice and the skin.

Stretching and Exercises

After the inflammation and pain have subsided, it is important to begin stretching and strengthening exercises. These exercises can help to improve flexibility and strength in the muscles and tendons around the elbow, which can help to prevent future injuries. It is important to perform these exercises slowly and with proper form, and to stop if there is any pain or discomfort.

Medication

In some cases, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be used to manage the pain associated with tennis elbow. It is important to speak to a doctor before taking any medications, as some may have side effects or interact with other medications.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can be used to help manage the pain and improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles and tendons around the elbow. Physical therapists can provide exercises and stretches that are specifically tailored to the individual's needs, which can help to improve the healing process. In some cases, physical therapists may also use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or other treatments to help manage the pain.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damaged tissues and relieve the pain. Surgery may also be used to remove any calcium deposits that have built up in the elbow over time. It is important to speak to a doctor to determine if surgery is the best option.

Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow and How to Treat It

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an inflammation of the tendons around the elbow. It’s a common condition in athletes, especially tennis players. It can also be caused by other activities that involve repetitive movements of the wrist, such as playing the violin or using a screwdriver. Tennis elbow is a painful condition that can be difficult to treat. Here, we'll discuss the causes, symptoms and treatments for tennis elbow.

Causes of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive, strenuous activities that can strain the tendons in the elbow. This includes activities like using a screwdriver, chopping vegetables, playing tennis, and racquetball. In some cases, it can also be caused by a single incident, such as lifting a heavy object, or playing a game of tennis for the first time in a long time. The pain is usually felt in the outside of the elbow, near the bony protuberance of the elbow.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain in the outside of the elbow. This can be a sharp, burning pain, or a dull ache. The pain may also extend to the forearm and wrist. Other symptoms can include tenderness when touching the elbow, weakness in the hand and wrist, and difficulty gripping objects. It’s important to note that the pain can be intermittent and can come and go in waves.

Treating Tennis Elbow

Treatment for tennis elbow typically involves rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). It is important to rest the elbow and avoid activities that cause pain. Ice should be applied for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day. NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation. If these treatments fail to provide relief, a steroid injection may be recommended. Physical therapy is also a helpful treatment for tennis elbow. A physical therapist can teach exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow, as well as provide treatments such as ultrasound, massage, and stretching.

In some cases, surgery may be recommended. Surgery involves removing any damaged tissue and repairing any damage to the tendons. This can be done arthroscopically or with open surgery. The success rate of surgery is usually very high and most people are able to return to normal activities within a few weeks after the surgery.

Tennis elbow can be a painful and debilitating condition. However, it is usually treatable with rest, ice, NSAIDs and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. If you experience any of the symptoms of tennis elbow, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.