If you feel a dull pain on the outer side of your elbow or have trouble lifting objects, you might have tennis elbow! What causes tennis elbow, what are its symptoms, and how can it be treated? One Essential will break it all down for you!
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the outer side of the elbow. It was named “tennis elbow” because it was commonly found in tennis players. The main symptoms include localized pain, as well as weakness and soreness in the elbow and wrist.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the wrist and forearm muscles, leading to excessive strain on the extensor muscles. This overuse results in tiny tears in the tendons and fascia, causing chronic inflammation and degeneration, eventually leading to tennis elbow. Additionally, improper wrist posture or insufficient strength in the forearm can increase the risk of developing this condition. People who frequently use computers, chefs, homemakers, movers, and construction workers are at higher risk of tennis elbow.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
1. Pain on the Outer Side of the Elbow
Tennis elbow typically causes pain on the outer side of the elbow, which worsens when gripping objects or rotating the wrist.
2. Weakened Grip Strength
Patients often experience a noticeable decline in grip strength, making simple tasks like holding a pen or picking up a phone difficult.
3. Difficulty Rotating the Wrist
Wrist soreness and limited movement are common, making everyday actions such as turning a doorknob or wringing a towel challenging.
How to Check if You Have Tennis Elbow
You can try bending your wrist upward or downward while applying resistance. If you feel a pulling sensation or pain, you may have tennis elbow.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow
1. Medication
Doctors may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to relieve pain. In severe cases, a local corticosteroid injection may be needed to reduce inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy
Treatments such as ice packs, heat therapy, shockwave therapy, ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, and manual therapy can help reduce pain and improve blood circulation for faster recovery. Physiotherapists may also recommend wearing an elbow brace to reduce strain on the elbow.
3. Exercise Therapy
A physiotherapist may suggest stretching and strength training exercises to relax the muscles and improve muscle strength, reducing the risk of recurrence.
4. Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy fail to improve the condition, surgery may be recommended to repair the damaged tendons.
How to Relieve Tennis Elbow?
You can stretch your forearm muscles to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness. For example, gently pull your wrist upward or downward, holding the stretch for 15–20 seconds each time and repeating 5–8 times.
How to Prevent Tennis Elbow?
1. Use Braces or Supports to Reduce Strain
If you frequently use your forearm, consider wearing an elbow brace to reduce strain and prevent injuries.
2. Maintain Proper Posture
Ensure proper wrist positioning when performing activities, such as adjusting your keyboard and mouse placement to keep your wrist and elbow in a natural position.
3. Avoid Excessive Repetitive Movements
If your work or activities involve repetitive hand movements, take regular breaks to relax your forearm muscles.
4. Warm Up and Maintain Proper Form
Whether before exercising or during daily activities, proper warm-up and correct posture can help reduce the risk of muscle strain.
One Essential Professional Physiotherapy Center
One Essential offers a variety of treatment services, including scoliosis, knee pain, wrist pain, and plantar fasciitis. Having provided treatment for multiple Hong Kong team athletes, we are trusted by our clients and offer a one-stop solution for various pain-related issues!
Successful Tennis Elbow Physiotherapy Case
Due to my job, I spend long hours working on the computer and coding, which led to tennis elbow. I suffered from persistent pain for several months and tried various treatments without success. By chance, I attended rehabilitation training at One Essential. After receiving treatment from Alan, my tennis elbow improved and has now been completely resolved.