TENNIS ELBOW
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TENNIS ELBOW
Dr.Muthus team have a vast experience in treatment of Tennis elbow and other sports injuries. We have successfully treated many patients suffering from it with comprehensive & personalized care.
What is Tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is a type of sports injury commonly seen in people who play tennis more often and hence the name Tennis elbow. The tendons in the elbow region are damaged or injured causing severe pain in the elbow region. It occurs due to overuse of tendons of the elbow due to repetitive movement of forearm and wrists while playing sports in majority cases. It is also seen in people who indulge in occupations where they have to do repetitive motions of their arms. People who are commonly affected with Tennis elbow are: Tennis players, painters, plumbers, carpenters.
What are the Common Causes of Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by damage to the tendons in your arm that connect your muscles to your elbow bone. It is a painful condition that occurs due to repetitive movements of arms and wrists that results in inflammation of the tendons in the elbow. Prolonged use of muscles causes continuous muscle strain when contracted again and again. This results in tear or rupture of the connective tendons of the fore arm. Tennis elbow may result from doing following activities: playing tennis, typing, painting, weight lifting, cutting meat, knitting. Recent elbow injury from fall or by an accident may also cause Tennis elbow.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
- Pain and tenderness in and around your elbow.
- Pain radiating towards upper and lower arm.
- Swelling of the elbow.
- Pain while holding and gripping objects.
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What are the Risk Factors for Tennis Elbow?
Age
Tennis elbow can occur at any age, but 30 to 50 years is the common age group affected with tennis elbow.
Occupation
People whose occupation involves repetitive use of arms such as painters, plumbers, carpenters are more likely to develop Tennis elbow.
Sports
Playing sports especially those which involve repetitive movements of hands like tennis or badminton. Improper use of sports equipment, use of poor athletic techniques may also cause Tennis Elbow.
How to Diagnose Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow at initial stages can be diagnosed by asking symptoms and certain questions by your doctor. During the physical examination the doctor applies pressure in the affected area and asks you to move your arms, wrist and your fingers in different directions. Many times your physical exam and medical history will be enough to diagnose tennis elbow. But at times doctor may suggest you other diagnostic tests to visualize the injury and rule out any other conditions if present. The diagnostic tests suggested for tennis elbow include:
- X rays
- Ultra sound
- MRI scan
- CT scan
How Tennis Elbow is Treated?
Tennis elbow can be conservatively treated at home by self care and by allowing the arm to rest. When home treatments doesn’t work, it is advised to visit a doctor. Depending on the severity of the injury the doctor may suggest you one of the following treatments
Pain management
Icing the elbow can reduce the swelling and pain.
Medication
Using Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, aspirin helps in reducing pain and swelling.
Physical therapy and massage therapy
performing certain exercises can reduce the stiffness of the elbow and increase its flexibility.
Elbow bracing
Using an elbow strap will prevent further strain to tendons.
Tennis Elbow Surgery
If a conservative treatment doesn’t alleviate your pain, orthopedic surgery is advised. In tennis elbow surgery the damaged part of the tendon is removed to ease pain and help you move your elbow easily. In treatment of Tennis elbow there are two different types of surgeries, they are: Open surgery and Arthroscopic surgery.
What Should You do Next?
Book an appointment now with our specialist for instant treatment. Before booking your appointment make sure you know the answers to the following questions.
- When did your symptoms first appeared?
- Are you currently using any medication? If yes what are they?
- Do you any nerve disease?
- Does your job involve frequent movement of your arms.
- Do you play sports? If yes what kind of sports do you play?
