Do you have to play tennis to get tennis elbow?
No. It is caused by any repetitive gripping/wrist extension. Painters, plumbers, and typists are commonly affected.
Condition/Condition Details
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury from repetitive wrist and arm motions that causes pain on the outside of the elbow.
Experiencing Tennis Elbow Pain?
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About Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a painful condition caused by overuse of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Repetitive wrist and arm motions can lead to micro-tears and degeneration in the tendon, causing pain and weakness. Though its name comes from racquet sports, it commonly affects anyone engaged in repetitive gripping tasks. At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our evaluation includes a focused physical exam and may use imaging to visualize the tendon pathology and guide treatment.
What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
Patients commonly report pain and tenderness on the bony knob on the outside of the elbow. This pain can radiate down the forearm and may be accompanied by weakness when gripping objects, shaking hands, or turning a doorknob.
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury from repetitive wrist and arm motions that causes pain on the outside of the elbow.
Are There Specific Risk Factors for Tennis Elbow?
Risk factors include repetitive wrist extension movements found in sports and certain occupations (like plumbing or painting), poor ergonomic setup, and being between the ages of 35 and 55. Smoking can also impair the tendon's ability to heal.
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow?
Diagnosis relies on a clinical assessment and physical tests like Cozen’s test to reproduce the symptoms. A high-resolution ultrasound offers a dynamic evaluation of the tendon structure, while a complimentary MRI review can provide detailed visualization of any tears or associated joint pathology if needed.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow?
Conservative management is successful in most cases and includes activity modification, using a counterforce brace, and physical therapy referrals emphasizing eccentric strengthening of the wrist extensors. For persistent symptoms, our specialists may recommend image-guided interventions such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to enhance tendon healing. Surgery is rarely required.
Does Tennis Elbow Cause Pain?
The pain in tennis elbow stems from both the mechanical overload of the tendon fibers and the inflammatory mediators released during the degenerative process. This sensitizes local nerve endings, amplifying pain with even simple wrist movements.
What Can Patients Do to Prevent It?
To prevent tennis elbow, patients should use proper technique and equipment in sports, incorporate a thorough warm-up and stretching routine, perform regular forearm strengthening exercises, and maintain optimal workstation ergonomics.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are experiencing persistent lateral elbow pain or weakness, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Take advantage of our complimentary MRI review and free second opinion to begin an effective treatment plan.
Locations Offering Evaluation
Our board-certified specialists offer tennis elbow evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you treat tennis elbow fast?
Rest and bracing are key. A counterforce brace relieves tension. Ice massage and NSAIDs reduce acute pain.
Does tennis elbow heal on its own?
Yes, but it takes time. It is a self-limiting condition that typically resolves in 6-12 months. PT accelerates recovery.
What is PRP for tennis elbow?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections use your blood's growth factors to jumpstart healing in chronic tendons that haven't healed with rest. Learn about regenerative medicine.
Is surgery needed for tennis elbow?
Rarely (<5%). Surgery is only for patients with disabling pain after a year of failed conservative treatment.
