What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is a common cause of elbow pain. Doctors also call it lateral epicondylitis. It happens when the tendons in your elbow become swollen or damaged. These tendons help you move your arm and wrist. Even though it is called tennis elbow, you do not need to play tennis to get it. Many people develop this condition from other activities. Understanding tennis elbow can help you find the right treatment and relief.
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow
Most often, tennis elbow is caused by overuse. Repeating the same arm or wrist movements can strain the tendons. Over time, this leads to small tears and pain. For example, people who play racquet sports are at risk. However, many jobs and hobbies can also cause tennis elbow. These include:
In addition, age can play a role. People between 30 and 50 years old are more likely to get tennis elbow. But anyone can develop it if they use their arm in the same way over and over.
Recognizing Symptoms
Tennis elbow symptoms usually start slowly. At first, you may notice mild pain on the outside of your elbow. Over time, the pain can get worse. Common symptoms include:
Sometimes, the pain can spread down your forearm. For many people, simple tasks like turning a doorknob or shaking hands become hard. If you notice these signs, it may be time to seek help.
How Tennis Elbow is Diagnosed
Doctors usually diagnose tennis elbow by asking about your symptoms and daily activities. They will also examine your arm and elbow. During the exam, your doctor may ask you to move your wrist or fingers. This helps them see where the pain is coming from. In some cases, your doctor may order tests such as:
However, most people do not need special tests. A careful exam is often enough to confirm tennis elbow.
Effective Treatment Options
Many people recover from tennis elbow with simple treatments. Rest is important. You should avoid activities that make the pain worse. In addition, your doctor may suggest:
Sometimes, doctors recommend steroid injections to reduce pain. Rarely, surgery may be needed if other treatments do not help after several months. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, most people improve without surgery.
Prevention and Self-Care Tips
There are steps you can take to lower your risk of tennis elbow. For example, you can:
Additionally, listen to your body. If you feel pain, stop the activity and rest. Early care can prevent the problem from getting worse.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Most cases of tennis elbow get better with home care. However, you should see an orthopedic specialist if:
Early treatment can help you recover faster. Orthopedic care for tennis elbow may include advanced therapies or surgery if needed.
In summary, tennis elbow is a treatable condition. With the right care, most people return to normal activities. Consult an orthopedic specialist at Shraddha Hospital for personalized advice on tennis elbow.
