Low dose radiotherapy for tennis elbow: how does it work?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition involving inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, often caused by repetitive wrist and arm motions. One option which can be used to alleviate the symptoms of this condition is low dose radiotherapy. Leading radiotherapy specialist and clinical oncologist Dr Richard Shaffer explains how radiotherapy can help pain caused by tennis elbow, and its benefits over other treatment methods for the condition. 

How does radiotherapy work to relieve symptoms of tennis elbow?

The pain in tennis elbow is produced as a result of small tears and inflammation in the tendons around the elbow. Radiotherapy helps with tennis elbow pain by reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and blocking pain signals transmitted by nerves in the affected area. It works by decreasing swelling and allowing damaged tissues to repair themselves, and interferes with the way nerves send pain signals from the affected area, reducing the pain experienced.

What are the potential benefits of choosing low dose radiotherapy over other treatments for lateral epicondylitis?

The majority of tennis elbow instances can be effectively addressed through conservative measures such as rest, icing, compression, and elevation (RICE). Additionally, some individuals may benefit from physiotherapy or using a brace. Radiotherapy is effective in alleviating pain in over 75% of cases. Typically, radiotherapy becomes a consideration when pain persists despite prior conservative interventions.

Given its non-invasive nature, radiotherapy offers an alternative to injections or surgical procedures. Because it uses a very low dose, there are minimal side effects.

Is radiotherapy a suitable option for chronic or severe cases of tennis elbow?

Radiotherapy can be used either early in the course of the disease to speed up healing, or later in the course of the disease, where previous treatments have proven ineffective. Occasionally, patients seek treatment after exhausting numerous other options, where they are still experiencing debilitating pain that hinders their daily activities. Even in cases of prolonged pain, radiotherapy can prove effective.

Are there any precautions or lifestyle changes patients should consider during and after radiotherapy?

The majority of people who get radiotherapy for tennis elbow find that their pain goes away and they can return to their daily activities with ease. There are no restrictions after radiotherapy for tennis elbow.

However, to prevent the pain from coming back, you should stick to the following recommendations:

• Use the proper technique when you're playing sports, typing, or using hand tools.
• Do exercises to strengthen the muscles in your forearm.
• Don’t increase the intensity or duration of activities too quickly.
• Warm up and stretch before doing activities that stress the forearm.
• Think about ergonomics. For instance, adjusting your workstation and equipment to minimise strain on your wrists and elbows.
• Use equipment that is suitable for your size, strength, and skill level. Consider using tools or sports equipment with handles that are comfortable and provide proper support.
• Allow adequate time for rest and recovery after doing activities to avoid overuse injuries.
• Use protective gear such as straps or braces to provide support to the elbow.
• Take regular breaks during activities that involve repetitive arm movements.
• Avoid dehydration as it can affect the elasticity of tendons and muscles.

If you are considering radiotherapy for tennis elbow and would like to book a consultation with Dr Shaffer, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.