Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a common condition that affects many people, not just tennis players. This article will explain what tennis elbow is, its causes, risk factors, symptoms, and when to see a doctor.

Be sure to contact us at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties today to book your visit!

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow (also known as lateral epicondylitis) is a condition that occurs when the tendons in your elbow become overloaded due to repetitive motion, often affecting people who overuse the muscles in their forearm.

Although playing tennis and other racquet sports can lead to this condition, tennis elbow isn’t exclusive to athletes. Anyone engaging in repetitive hand, wrist, or arm movements, such as typing, painting, or plumbing, may develop tennis elbow lateral epicondylitis.

A man experiencing pain as a symptom of tennis elbow in Chardon, Ohio.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by the overuse of the forearm muscles that are involved in gripping, lifting, or rotating motions. The repeated stress on these muscles can lead to small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outside of the elbow joint. Over time, these tears cause inflammation and elbow pain.

What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

The primary symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. You might also notice:

It’s important to see a doctor if your elbow pain persists for more than a few days or if the pain worsens with certain activities.

How is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

Diagnosing tennis elbow typically involves a physical examination. Your doctor may check for pain around the elbow joint by having you perform various movements.

In some cases, imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI may be used to rule out other potential causes of elbow pain, such as arthritis or a torn ligament. A precise diagnosis is essential in developing an effective treatment plan for tennis elbow.

How is Tennis Elbow Treated?

Tennis elbow is treatable, and most people recover without surgery. The treatment options include:

  • Rest and Ice: Taking a break from activities that aggravate your elbow and applying ice can reduce inflammation.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a program of exercises to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles, improving elbow joint function. This is a key step in fixing a tennis elbow.
  • Bracing: Wearing a brace or using a strap can help reduce strain on the elbow, especially during activities that involve repetitive motion.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): PRP injections can help stimulate healing by using your body’s own growth factors.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin may help manage pain and inflammation.
  • Tennis Elbow Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and repair the elbow. However, most people recover without surgery.
 

Early treatment is essential to prevent the condition from worsening and avoid the need for tennis elbow surgery.

Take Action to Treat Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, while painful, is a manageable condition with the right care and attention. Whether you’re playing tennis or dealing with the daily demands of work, you can take steps to prevent tennis elbow and seek treatment before it becomes more serious.

If you are experiencing symptoms like elbow pain or arm pain, don’t wait. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our experienced team of specialists in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, Middlefield, and Geneva, Ohio, are here to help you diagnose and treat tennis elbow and other conditions of the hand, wrist or elbow.

Schedule an appointment today to get on the path to recovery and regain your strength and mobility!

Medically reviewed by Laszlo S. Harmat, D.O.