What Is Tennis Elbow and How Is It Treated?

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a painful condition characterized by inflammation and weakening of the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the bones. It usually occurs when the tendons in the elbows are overloaded, which is caused by the repetitive motions of the arm and wrist. 

This condition can affect anyone, not only athletes. It is especially common in such professions as carpenters, butchers, plumbers, and painters. 

What Are the Symptoms of This Condition?

The most common signs that you have tennis elbow include the following:

• Pain when you bend or lift your arm
• Pain when you grip, hold, and use small objects, such as a pen, for example
• Difficulty or inability to extend your forearm completely
• Pain when you twist the forearm.
• Pain or burning sensation on the outside of the elbow that spreads down the arm to the wrist 

Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to see a doctor for a physical exam as soon as possible. A doctor will check your elbow to figure out the source of pain. He or she will also ask you about your past injuries and recent activities. You may also need an MRI or X-ray if the symptoms do not disappear or weaken after a while. 

What Are Tennis Elbow Treatments?

Tennis elbow treatments can be divided into surgical and nonsurgical options. The most common and effective non-surgical treatments suggested by doctors include: 

• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen) for pain relief and reducing inflammation. It is important to know these drugs often cause side effects, including ulcers and bleeding. 
• Stretching exercises
• Platelet rich plasma shots
• Cortisone shots
• Using an elbow strap
• Wearing a brace around the forearm to reduce pain
• Physical therapy. 

If nonsurgical options do not help, a doctor may suggest performing a surgery. The purpose of the surgery is to remove the damaged part of the tendon and repair the remaining part of the tendon. The surgery is effective in almost 90% of cases. After the operation is completed, you may need special rehab exercises to strengthen your muscles around the elbow.

Bernard Ong, MD – The Premier Orthopedic Surgeon In Las Vegas, Nevada

If you have been suffering from tennis elbow for a while and you are looking for an experienced practitioner in Las Vegas who will be able to help you, Bernard Ong is who you should contact. Dr. Ong specializes in treating a wide variety of injuries, including tennis elbow, and does his best to help his patients get back to the fullest life possible after an orthopedic injury. If you have any questions or you want to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Ong, do not hesitate to give us a call. 

Categorized in: Orthopedist, Sports Medicine

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