Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): What You Need to Know
You may think elbow pain cannot be tennis elbow if you have never played tennis. But lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is a common condition, even in people who do not play racket sports. It can make daily activities like lifting a coffee cup or shaking hands difficult. Let’s explore what tennis elbow is, its causes, and how it is treated at Orthopedic Institute.
Symptoms of Lateral Epicondylitis
Lateral epicondylitis causes pain and discomfort, mainly on the outside of the elbow. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or aching on the outside of the elbow, especially when lifting or gripping something, like a doorknob.
- Weakness in the hand and wrist, making it hard to grip things.
- Stiffness in the elbow or wrist, as you might avoid moving your arm to prevent discomfort.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Lateral epicondylitis is often linked to repetitive movements, but it is not caused by one specific action. Some contributing factors include:
- Age: Most people affected are between 30 and 50 years old.
- Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive gripping or wrist extension, like electricians, plumbers, and mechanics, are more at risk.
- Activities: Repetitive activities, even playing sports or simple hand movements, can cause strain over time.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
At Orthopedic Institute, our specialists carefully evaluate your symptoms. We might perform physical exams like:
- Tenderness Check: Pressing on the outside of the elbow to pinpoint pain.
- Wrist Resistance: Asking you to extend your wrist against resistance to test strength.
Additional tests may include:
- X-rays to rule out arthritis or bone issues.
- Ultrasound to assess the tendon’s health.
- MRI if initial treatments do not provide relief.
Treatment Options for Lateral Epicondylitis
Most people improve with non-surgical treatments. At Orthopedic Institute, we focus on:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Simple exercises like stretching and strengthening the muscles help. Eccentric strengthening can stimulate tendon repair.
- Splints: Wearing wrist splints or elbow straps during activities can relieve strain on the muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce pain.
Injections
- Corticosteroid Injections: Cortisone shots can reduce inflammation and pain, offering temporary relief.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This involves drawing a small amount of blood, spinning it to isolate growth factors, and injecting it into the affected tendon to encourage healing.
Feeling anxious about an injection?
Getting the care you need should not be stressful. Orthopedic Institute now offers nitrous oxide to help you relax during your procedure. Ask your provider today if nitrous oxide could be right for you.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is considered when non-surgical options fail after 6-12 months. The procedure involves removing damaged tendon tissue, and sometimes repairing the tendon. It is typically done through a small incision or using an ultrasound-guided device called the Tenex procedure. The recovery process often includes physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility.
Recovery
Recovery from surgery usually involves physical therapy within the first few weeks, and many patients return to normal activities in about 6-12 weeks. Our team at Orthopedic Institute works with you to ensure a successful recovery.
Treatment for Lateral Epicondylitis at Orthopedic Institute
At Orthopedic Institute, our team of orthopedic specialists is experienced in treating tennis elbow. With advanced diagnostic tools and a range of non-surgical and surgical treatments, we aim to relieve your pain and help you regain function.