Tennis Elbow ( Epicondylitis )
Understanding Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition affecting the outer part of the elbow due to overuse or repetitive strain. Despite its name, you don't have to play tennis to develop this painful condition. It frequently affects plumbers, painters, carpenters, and office workers who perform repetitive gripping and wrist extension movements.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
The condition is caused by inflammation or micro-tearing of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. The muscle primarily involved is the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB). When this muscle is weakened from overuse, microscopic tears form in the tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle, leading to inflammation and pain.
Common Symptoms
- Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow.
- Weak grip strength.
- Pain that worsens with forearm activity, such as holding a racquet, turning a wrench, or shaking hands.
Treatment Options
Recovery involves reducing inflammation and promoting tendon healing:
- Rest and Modification: Avoiding the activity that caused the injury is the first step.
- Physical Therapy: Specific exercises are helpful for strengthening the muscles of the forearm. Eccentric exercises are particularly effective.
- Bracing: Using a counter-force brace over the back of your forearm can help relieve symptoms by resting the muscles and tendons.
- Remedial Massage and Myotherapy: Soft tissue therapies can help release tension in the forearm muscles, reducing the pull on the inflamed tendon. Dry needling is also highly effective for treating trigger points associated with tennis elbow.