Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects not only tennis players but also people involved in various activities involving repetitive movements of the arm and wrist. This condition can be painful and can limit the sufferers' ability to perform even everyday movements.
What is tennis elbow
Tennis elbow is a type of tendinopathy, i.e. it involves damage or degeneration of a tendon. In this case, the affected tendon is the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, which attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus bone at the elbow. Overuse and repetitive strain of this tendon can lead to small Ruptures tears and inflammation, causing the typical tennis elbow pain.
The causes of tennis elbowι αιτίες
Tennis elbow is often caused by repetitive activities that involve gripping and extending the wrist, such as
- Sports activities: The repetitive motion of swinging a tennis racket, for example, especially when performed with poor technique, can strain the tendon.
- Manual work: Jobs or hobbies that require repetitive gripping, lifting or using hand tools can increase the risk of the condition.
- Computer work: Prolonged use of a computer mouse or typing can contribute to the development of tennis elbow.
The symptoms of.tennis elbow
Common symptoms of tennis elbow include:
- - Pain on the outside of the elbow, which may radiate down to the forearm.
- - Grip weakness, which can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks.
- - Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- - Tenderness due to pressure on the lateral epicondyle.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of tennis elbow usually involves a physical examination by an orthopedist. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may also be needed to rule out other conditions. Cozen's test, which involves stretching the wrist with resistance, can help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for tennis elbow aims at relieving pain, promoting healing and preventing potential recurrence. Common treatment options include:
- - Rest: reducing or modifying activities that aggravate symptoms can help with recovery.
- - Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- - Support: The use of a splint or special strap can provide support and reduce stress on the tendon.
- - Physiotherapy: Specific exercises and stretches can strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
- -Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
- - Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injection locally may be used to reduce inflammation.
- - Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This involves the injection of concentrated platelets from the blood to speed up healing.
- - Shock wave therapy (ESWT): high energy shock waves are directed at the affected area to promote healing.
- - Surgery: In rare, severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical treatment may be considered either arthroscopically or with an open method.
Prevention tips
- - Proper technique: When engaging in activities that involve repetitive hand movements, make sure you use proper technique and equipment.
- - Warm up: always prefer to do a proper warm up before sports activities to prepare the muscles and tendons.
- - Strengthening exercises: include forearm and wrist strengthening exercises in your fitness programme.
- - Ergonomic environment: If you work at a desk, maintain proper ergonomics to reduce stress on your wrists and forearms. Also use ergonomic equipment such an ergonomic mouse.
Tennis elbow is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and limit patients' ability to perform daily tasks. Early recognition of symptoms and appropriate treatment are essential for a successful recovery. With the right treatment approach, patients can effectively manage the condition and return to normal activities in a short period of time.
To learn more about tennis elbow, contact us at 0030211 - 4057040 or 00306949196061 and at orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
