Tennis Elbow: A Painful Problem

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury that causes pain on the outside of your elbow. Despite its name, you don't have to play tennis to develop it. Any activity involving repetitive arm and wrist movements can lead to this painful condition.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Overusing your arm and wrist muscles can inflame and irritate the tendons (the tough cords that connect muscles to bones). This inflammation is what causes the pain associated with tennis elbow.

Common Activities That Can Cause Tennis Elbow:

• Playing sports like tennis, pickleball, or golf

• Painting

• Typing on a computer

• Gardening

• Using tools like screwdrivers or hammers

What Are the Symptoms?

If you have tennis elbow, you may experience:

• Pain on the outside of your elbow, often radiating along the back of your forearm

• Pain when gripping objects or lifting items

• Weakness in your forearm and wrist

How Can I Treat Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow usually resolves on its own, but even with proper treatment, recovery takes time. For most people who follow a treatment program, symptoms improve within 3-6 months without the need for injections or surgery. In some cases, symptoms persist despite non-operative measures. These patients may benefit from occasional steroid injections or, in some instances, surgery.

Treatment typically involves a combination of:

• Activity modification: Take a break from activities that cause pain or adjust how you perform them to avoid aggravating your elbow.

• Ice: Apply ice packs to your elbow for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. If you cannot take oral NSAIDs, topical options like Voltaren gel are effective and available over the counter or by prescription.

• Physical therapy: A physical or occupational therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen your forearm muscles and improve flexibility.

• Braces or straps: Wearing a counterforce brace can support your elbow and reduce stress on the tendons. Since resisted wrist motion contributes to pain, some patients find relief with a wrist brace, even if the pain is centered in the elbow.

Preventing Tennis Elbow

• Warm up before activity: Light stretching and warm-up exercises can prepare your muscles and reduce the risk of strain.

• Use proper technique: Learn the correct way to perform tasks to minimize stress on your muscles and tendons. Therapists are knowledgeable and can teach you new ways to perform everyday activities.

• Take breaks: Give your arm and wrist regular rest if you're doing repetitive tasks.

• Strengthen your muscles: Regular strength training can improve resilience and prevent injuries.

Take the Next Step

If you're experiencing persistent elbow pain or suspect you might have tennis elbow, don't wait to seek care. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Walterscheid to discuss your symptoms and find a treatment plan that works for you. Relief is possible, and we're here to help you get back to the activities you enjoy.