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Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Updated: Nov 8, 2022


A client who has tennis elbow


Do you play tennis frequently? Perhaps you simply use your arm a lot at work. The condition known as tennis elbow results in elbow pain. Tennis elbow is a disorder caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. This blog article will explore tennis elbow, its causes, symptoms, and remedies!


What is Tennis Elbow, and What are the Causes?

Tennis elbow is a condition that is more frequent in tennis players, hence the name, although you do not have to play tennis to have it. Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. It is also known as lateral epicondylitis. Pain is frequently produced by repetitive wrist and arm actions, such as tennis strokes.


Tennis elbow can also be caused by the following activities:

- Sifting

- Drawing

- Using hand tools such as a screwdriver


It is most commonly found in adults aged 40 to 60. Men are more prone to illness than women. People who work in jobs that require them to utilize their arms repeatedly are also more likely to develop tennis elbow.


What are the Symptoms of a Tennis Elbow, and how can You tell if You have it?

Tennis elbow is characterized by pain on the outside of the elbow. The discomfort may also go down your forearm. When you: - Lift something - Grip something - Twist your wrist - Extend your arm, you may experience pain.


Other symptoms of tennis elbow include

  • Forearm muscle weakness

  • Tenderness around your elbow

  • A burning sensation in your forearm


It's critical to see a doctor if you suspect you have tennis elbow. Tennis elbow can be diagnosed by a physical examination and questions about your symptoms and medical history. To rule out other disorders, imaging tests such as an MRI may be required.


A tennis elbow is frequently mistaken for a golfer's elbow. Tennis elbow, on the other hand, is a condition that causes discomfort on the outside of your elbow, whereas a golfer's elbow causes pain on the inside of your elbow. the back of your elbow


If you have tennis elbow, you may find that the pain worsens when you do the following:

  • Use your arm

  • Lift something, grip something, twist your wrist, and extend your arm.


The discomfort may also worsen if you:

  • Sleep on your arm

  • Drive for an extended period

  • Make use of a hand instrument, such as a screwdriver.


What Treatments are Available for Tennis Elbows, and Which One Is Right for You?


Tennis elbow can be treated with a variety of different methods. The optimal treatment option for you will be determined by the severity of your symptoms.


Tennis elbow is frequently treated with rest and ice as the first line of defense. Avoid activities that worsen your pain and take frequent breaks to rest your arm. Applying ice to your elbow many times a day for 20 minutes can also assist in lessening pain and swelling.


If ice and rest do not relieve your symptoms, you should consult a doctor.

Other treatments may be suggested by them, such as:

- Physical therapy

- Injections of steroids

- Surgical procedure


Tennis elbow normally improves with time. However, the pain can be excruciating and persist for months or even years. It is critical to follow your doctor's treatment instructions if you have tennis elbow. Most people find pain relief and can resume their daily activities after receiving the correct treatment.



How can you Prevent Tennis Elbows from Occurring in the First Place?

There are several things you may take to avoid getting tennis elbow. It is critical to warm up before playing tennis and to use good technique. You should also take frequent rests and avoid striking the ball too hard.


If your job requires you to use your arms repeatedly, you must take frequent pauses and practice good technique. Wearing a tennis elbow brace can also assist in keeping the problem at bay.



Conclusion

Tennis elbow normally improves with time; nevertheless, the discomfort can be excruciating and continue for months or even years. If your symptoms do not improve after several months of conservative treatment, you should consult a doctor. Other therapies, such as physical therapy, steroid injections, or surgery, may be suggested. It's critical to adhere to your doctor's treatment recommendations. Most people can find relief and return to their daily activities with adequate therapy.


Read some articles here for different types of therapies related to specific body pain.



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