Causes of tennis elbow
All joints are surrounded by muscles and tendons that control movement. Tennis elbow occurs when the muscles that straighten your wrist become overused, leading to small tears and inflammation around “the bony point of your elbow, known as the lateral epicondyle.”
Repetitive activities cause this condition, including racquet sports, throwing sports, painting, typing, and gardening. Elbow injuries can also trigger tennis elbow.
Symptoms of tennis elbow
The primary symptom is pain that occurs during specific activities:
- Gripping small objects like a pen or fork
- Twisting your forearm to open a jar or turn a doorknob
- Lifting or bending your arm
Pain typically appears on the outside of the upper forearm near the elbow, and full arm extension may become difficult.
Treatment for tennis elbow
Most cases improve naturally over several months to a year. However, faster symptom relief is available through various treatments.
Rest
Rest is the most effective approach. If your work causes the condition, modify how you use your wrist and arm, or take regular breaks with therapeutic exercises.
Exercises
Regular exercises strengthen muscles and prevent tennis elbow. Wrist lifts, wrist flexes, and elbow bends are recommended. A hand surgeon can advise which exercises suit your situation best.
Hot/cold therapies
These approaches reduce swelling and pain associated with tennis elbow.
Topical NSAIDS
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs applied directly to the skin avoid the side effects of oral medications.
Surgery for tennis elbow
Arthroscopic surgery is an option when other treatments fail. This “minimally invasive” procedure is typically performed as outpatient surgery with an 80% success rate and allows same-day discharge.
