Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis as it is medically known, is a disease caused by overuse of the wrist and forearm. Repetitive and frequent use of the muscles that bend the wrist upwards in sports activities such as tennis or for professional reasons leads to inflammation (edema) and damage to the tissues around the lateral epicondyle, the attachment site of these muscles. Treatment can be done with various treatment methods depending on the condition of the disease.
If the disease is diagnosed and treated early, symptoms can be controlled with rest and some exercise. In severe cases, medication, physiotherapy and surgical methods may be required.
What are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
Elbow pain that occurs with wrist movements is the main complaint among the symptoms. The pain is felt on the outside of the arm and above the elbow. It can be exacerbated especially when effort is required to grasp something or make arm movements. For this reason, patients may have difficulty playing sports, maintaining their occupation or even performing activities of daily living such as cooking or carrying things.
In addition to these symptoms, people with tennis elbow may also experience stiffness and swelling of the elbow muscles. It is important for people who experience one or more of the above symptoms to see a specialist for treatment.
Who Can Get Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is a disease that can be seen in all age and gender groups. However, the presence of certain factors may increase the risk. Risk factors can be listed as follows:
Repetitive Movements: Repetitive and frequent use of the wrist and forearm can cause damage to the elbow tendons. For this reason, it is more common in tennis athletes and in occupational groups that involve repetitive movements of the wrist and arm.
Age: It is more common in people between 30 and 50 years of age.
Muscle Weakness: Weak muscles can put more pressure on the tendons, increasing the risk.
How is tennis elbow diagnosed?
Tennis elbow is usually diagnosed by a physical examination by a specialist. However, the specialist may sometimes need imaging methods such as X-rays or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to rule out other diseases or to determine the extent of damage. Once lateral epicondylitis has been diagnosed, the necessary treatment is planned.
People who suspect this condition should consult a specialist for diagnosis. Early and accurate diagnosis will help to apply the necessary treatment and ensure that the complaints that arise are taken under control before they progress.
How is Tennis Elbow Treated?
In the treatment of tennis elbow, first of all, the person should reduce the use of the hand and arm on the affected side as much as possible for a few weeks. A splint that restricts movements can be used for this purpose. Cold application, medications and physical therapy methods to relieve inflammation and pain in that area are the treatment options used to effectively treat the disease.
Patients with lateral epicondylitis are advised to do some muscle-strengthening exercises at home to relieve pain and speed up recovery. Also, using an elbow brace or elbow band can help reduce pain. However, it is important to consult a specialist to determine the best treatment option for the patient.