Game, set and match: mastering tennis elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many people, not just athletes. This painful condition can make everyday activities difficult, but with the right information and treatment, it can be effectively managed. In this article, Mr Tony Antonios answers the key questions about tennis elbow and how to regain control of your pain and mobility.

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain around the outer part of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow become overloaded or injured. Despite the name, tennis elbow can affect anyone - not just tennis players. It’s common in people whose jobs or hobbies involve repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as:

• Plumbers
   
• Painters
   
• Carpenters
   
• Butchers
   
• Office workers who use a computer mouse extensively
   

The repeated motion and overuse of the forearm muscles can lead to small tears in the tendon, causing inflammation and pain.

What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?

The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Other symptoms include:

• Pain when gripping objects: you may feel pain when you hold or squeeze something, such as shaking hands or holding a cup of tea.
   
• Pain when lifting or bending your arm: the discomfort may increase with any movement of the elbow, especially if you’re lifting something heavy.
   
• Wrist pain: in some cases, the pain may extend down to your forearm or wrist.
   
• Weakness in the forearm: you might find it harder to do activities that involve twisting your forearm, such as turning a doorknob.

Tennis elbow pain tends to develop gradually, starting off mild and worsening over time if left untreated.

What causes tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive strain or overuse of the forearm muscles. This strain can occur from a range of activities that involve repeated motions of the arm, wrist, and elbow. While the condition is often linked to racket sports like tennis, it’s just as likely to develop in people who perform repetitive work tasks or engage in certain hobbies.

Common causes of tennis elbow include:
 

• Repetitive manual work: jobs that involve repetitive arm movements, such as using tools, lifting, or typing.
   
• Sports: not only tennis, but other sports like squash, badminton, or even weightlifting can contribute to the condition.
   
• Improper technique: in sports, incorrect technique while using your arm can put additional strain on the tendons.

Age can also be a factor, as tennis elbow is more common in adults between 30 and 50 years old.

 

How is tennis elbow diagnosed?

If you suspect you have tennis elbow, it’s important to see a specialist for an accurate diagnosis. During your appointment, the doctor will assess your symptoms and ask about your activities and work. They may:
 

• Conduct a physical examination: your doctor will examine your elbow, forearm, and wrist for signs of tenderness or pain when moving.
   
• Imaging tests: in some cases, an X-ray or MRI scan may be recommended to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or a torn ligament.
   

The diagnosis is typically based on the physical examination and your description of the symptoms.
 

What are the treatment options for tennis elbow?

Treatment for tennis elbow usually starts with conservative methods aimed at relieving pain and reducing inflammation. The most common treatment options include:
 

• Rest: avoiding activities that aggravate the pain is crucial. Giving your arm time to heal can help reduce strain on the tendon.
   
• Ice therapy: applying ice packs to the elbow for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and ease the pain.
   
• Pain relief: over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help manage discomfort.
   
• Physiotherapy: a physiotherapist can guide you through specific exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. They may also use techniques like massage or ultrasound therapy to aid recovery.
   
• Bracing: wearing an elbow brace or support can help reduce strain on the tendon and provide relief.
   

In most cases, these treatments will improve symptoms over a few weeks or months. However, if conservative methods don’t help, more advanced options may be considered.

 

When is surgery needed for tennis elbow?

Surgery is rarely needed for tennis elbow, but it may be considered if symptoms persist after six to 12 months of non-surgical treatments. The most common surgical option involves removing the damaged part of the tendon to allow healthy tissue to heal. This can be done as an open surgery or using a minimally invasive approach.

Recovery from surgery typically involves physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility in the arm, and most patients can return to normal activities within a few months.
 

How can I prevent tennis elbow from returning?

Once you’ve recovered from tennis elbow, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from returning. Some helpful tips include:

• Strengthening exercises: regularly practising exercises that target your forearm and wrist muscles can help protect the tendons from future injury.
   
• Correct technique: Ii you play sports like tennis or golf, work with a coach to ensure you’re using the right technique to avoid unnecessary strain.
   
• Take breaks: if your job involves repetitive arm movements, take regular breaks to rest your muscles and prevent overuse.

In many cases, following these tips can help keep tennis elbow at bay and allow you to return to your normal activities without pain.

If you would like to book an appointment with Mr Tony Antonios, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.