|
UK Orthopaedics
Health Information
|
Epicondylitis Lateral (Tennis Elbow)
From Economou SG, Economou TS: Instructions for Surgery
Patients. Philadelphia, WB Saunders, 1998, p. 589.
Description
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is the most common painful condition of the
elbow. Inflammation and pain occur on the outer side of the elbow where muscles
and tendons attach to the bone. The structures involved are the muscles or
tendons of the forearm that bring your wrist back (extend the wrist). This
occurs not only in tennis players but also in anyone who performs repeated
resisted motions of the wrist. Without proper intervention, this may develop
into a chronic, recurrent problem.
Common Signs and Symptoms
-
Pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow
-
Pain or weakness with gripping activities
-
Pain with twisting motions of the wrist (playing tennis, using a screwdriver, opening a door or a jar)
-
Pain with lifting objects, including a coffee cup
Treatment
Initial treatment consists of ice to relieve pain, stretching and strengthening
exercises, and modification of the activity that initially caused the problem.
These can all be carried out at home for acute cases. Chronic cases often
require referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer for further
evaluation and treatment. A counterforce (tennis elbow) brace may be recommended
to reduce the forces to the damaged tendon. A splint to immobilize the wrist may
be useful early. If symptoms persist, an injection of cortisone and anesthetics
or surgical intervention may be required.
 More on sports related injuries
|
Academics | Service | Research | UK HealthCare | UK A-Z 
