Tennis Elbow
(lateral epicondylitis)
What is a Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is a type of tendinitis that occurs when the tendons of your elbow are overloaded, caused by repetitive motion. Pain can be felt on the outside of your elbow, where the tendons in the arm attach to a bony bump. Tennis players are not the only people to suffer from tennis elbow. People who use their elbow and wrist often such as painters, carpenters, butchers, and plumbers can also suffer from tennis elbow.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is commonly caused by occupational hazards or overuse causing muscle strain. Patients tend to experience tennis elbow more frequently as they age, and is commonly seen in adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow:
- Racquet sports, especially backhand strokes
- Driving Screws
- Repetitive use of a computer mouse
- Driving Screws
- Using plumbing tools
- Painting
Tennis Elbow Symptoms
If you are suffering from tennis elbow, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain that radiates from the outside of your elbow to the forearm and wrist
- Weakness
- Difficulty shaking hands
- Difficulty turning a doorknob
- Difficulty holding a coffee cup
Tennis Elbow Diagnosis
Our elbow specialists can diagnose whether your elbow pain is caused by tennis elbow. Your doctor will examine your elbow and apply pressure to the affected area or ask you to move your wrist or fingers in various ways. To rule out other issues, an X-ray or MRI may be performed.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
Our elbow specialists can determine the best course of treatment for your Tennis Elbow which may include the following:
- Rest
- Ice
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Wearing a brace
- Injections
- Physical Therapy
- Surgery, if necessary