TENNIS ELBOW

Tennis elbow is a common disorder of the tendons attached to the outside of the elbow. It commences with small tears or scar tissue development under the tendons, wear-and- tear of the elbow joint or irritation and inflammation of nerves in the elbow region. When these tendons are damaged due to repeated stress or overuse, they degenerate, resulting in painful tendinitis.

Tennis elbow most frequently occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. It can be linked to frequent twisting movements of the hand, wrist or forearm. It does not occur exclusively to racquet-sport players. Motions used in everyday actions such as using a screwdriver, digging in a garden or a direct blow to the area are also known causes.

The most common symptom is discomfort in the outer region of the elbow. The affected area may be tender to the touch or become significantly painful during gripping, twisting or lifting motions. Pain can range from mild to severe and can radiate up to the forearm, though there is usually no outward sign of redness or swelling.

Tennis elbow is most often diagnosed during a physical exam and assessment of your daily activities and medical history. If your symptoms do not improve with treatment, imaging tests may be used to diagnose a potential bone problem.

A recent non-invasive treatment consisting of sound waves (Sonocur) to allow the tendons to heal shows promise.

If conservative rehabilitation is ineffective or your condition is severe, surgery may be required to treat tennis elbow. The procedure involves releasing the tendon, removing the damaged tissue and reattaching the tendon to the bone.