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Elbow
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Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow is a condition in which the outside bony bump on the elbow is painful and tender. It is caused by an inflammatory condition within the tendons that attach to the bony bump. These tendons are attached to the muscles that are involved in motion at the wrist. Tennis elbow may be caused by overuse of the wrist in activities such as using a screwdriver or hammer, playing tennis, knitting or typing. The constant pulling of the tendons where they are attached to the bone causes microscopic tears in the tendons which in turn cause inflammation. The inflammation results in pain, swelling and sometimes warmth and redness at the site. Activities that involve gripping or twisting of the wrist, such as holding a coffee cup or starting your car, may become painful and you may even feel as though the wrist is becoming weak. Numbness and tingling in the forearm, hand and fingers is not uncommon.
The diagnosis is made by patient history and physical exam. Plain x-rays may be needed. Nerve conduction studies and/or MRI may be indicated in certain circumstances.
Treatment includes rest, the application of heat and/or ice, ice massage, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, braces, home exercises and physical therapy. Rarely, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. Avoidance of repetitive motion of the elbow and wrist will be necessary to facilitate a speedy recovery. Activity modifications such as a temporary change in sport or a change in grip may be helpful.
If you have been prescribed anti-inflammatory medications, please take the medication daily for maximum benefit. Continue the medication until you are able to do all of your regular activities without pain.
We suggest as a guideline to return to sports that you have complete relief of pain, full return of range of motion at the elbow and full strength in your wrist. Remember that the longer the symptoms have been present before treatment begins, the longer it may take to achieve full recovery.
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