Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as “lateral epicondylitis”, is a painful condition that occurs when the tendons in your elbow are overloaded with repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. This condition can cause inflammation or micro tearing of the tendons that join the forearm muscles (extensors) to the outside of your elbow. In the majority of cases, the tendon of the extensor carpi radialis brevis is involved. Despite its name, you can still be affected by this condition even if you have never picked up a tennis racket in your life. Common gripping and overuse activities contributing to this condition are: typing, heavy lifting, forceful forearm pronation/supination, repetitive vibration, painting, racking, knitting, and carpentry.
Signs and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
- Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow
- Pain and or weakness with gripping
- Pain and or weakness when turning a doorknob or opening a can
Causes of Tennis Elbow?
- Repeated overload of forearm muscles (extensors)
- Gripping activities
- Driving screws
- Using plumbing tools
- Repetitive computer use (typing, mouse)
Treatment Options?
- Conservative care: 80-95% of patients have success with non-surgical care.
- Exercise Therapy
- Manual Therapy
- Shockwave Therapy
- Low Level Laser Therapy
- Acupuncture
- Bracing