Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and tenderness in the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions with their wrist and arm, not just tennis players.

The condition occurs when the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow become inflamed and irritated due to overuse or repetitive strain. This can cause pain and weakness in the arm, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as gripping objects or lifting items.

Symptoms of tennis elbow can vary from mild to severe and may include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, stiffness in the arm, and weakness in the wrist and hand. The pain may also worsen when lifting objects, gripping things tightly, or performing repetitive motions.

Treatment for tennis elbow usually involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Physical therapy exercises can also help strengthen the muscles in the arm and wrist, and reduce the risk of future injury. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections or surgery to relieve pain and inflammation.

To prevent tennis elbow, it's important to practice good ergonomics and avoid repetitive motions that can strain the tendons in the arm. Stretching before exercise and taking breaks to rest the arm and wrist can also help reduce the risk of injury.

If you experience symptoms of tennis elbow, it's important to seek medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right care and preventative measures, most people with tennis elbow can recover fully and resume their normal activities.