LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS (TENNIS ELBOW)

Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is soreness or pain on the outside (lateral) side of the upper arm near the elbow. Symptoms include elbow pain that gradually worsens, pain that radiates down the arm and hand, and/or a weak grasp. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is soreness or pain on the outside (lateral) side of the upper arm near the elbow. Playing tennis, other racquet sports or performing activities that involve similar movements in the elbow can all cause this condition. With tennis elbow, the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow are inflamed; the forearm muscles and tendons become damaged from repetitive movements. The most common tendon involved in tennis elbow is called the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB). This extensor tendon attaches the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle of your elbow.

The most common cause of this condition is overuse. Microscopic tears of the tendon will develop as the associated muscle performs repetitive motions. This can cause elbow pain that gradually worsens, pain or burning that radiates down the arm and hand, and/or a weak grasp. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Most cases of tennis elbow can be treated with non-surgical methods. Rest will allow your arm to heal and not put additional stress on the torn tendon. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medication can help with the pain and swelling. Your doctor may recommend a brace, steroid or plasma injections, occupational therapy or extracorporeal shock wave therapy to aid in the healing process. If non-surgical methods are ineffective, you may be a candidate for surgery. There are various procedures in which the diseased tissue will be removed and reattachment of the healthy muscle back to the bone may be required.