The term “tennis elbow” is erroneous as it can manifest in individuals who are not engaged in tennis-related activities. It refers to the occurrence of elbow pain associated with repetitive small tears in the tendons of the forearm muscles that connect to the elbow.
Symptoms:
- Recurrent pain experienced beneath the elbow’s flexion crease and on the outer aspect of the upper forearm.
- In certain cases, the pain may extend towards the wrist along the forearm.
These tears can arise as a consequence of repetitive rotational movements of the forearm during various activities. Engaging in tennis, executing a backhand stroke, performing painting tasks, or utilizing a screwdriver can contribute to the acceleration of tennis elbow development.
Diagnosis:
Typically, a physical examination suffices for diagnosis, although an X-ray of the affected region may be conducted to rule out additional complications. It is important to note that tennis elbow does not exhibit any abnormalities on X-ray images.
In the majority of cases, the discomfort gradually subsides over time, usually within a range of 6 to 12 months.
Treatment:
The management of tennis elbow involves various approaches such as applying cryotherapy, performing massage therapy, using immobilization devices during nighttime, and allowing the arm to rest. These interventions are considered suitable in addressing the symptoms associated with the repetitive strain injuries of the forearm extensor tendons, commonly known as tennis elbow.
Prevention:
To prevent the recurrence of tennis elbow, individuals can employ preventive measures such as utilizing a supportive bandage placed below the elbow to alleviate the load on the inflamed tendons. Additionally, engaging in strengthening exercises, including wrist movements in a palm-down position, can be beneficial in enhancing the strength and resilience of the affected area.
Medication:
The pharmacological management of tennis elbow includes the administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or other similar medications. These drugs have demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating the pain associated with tennis elbow. In certain cases, the use of corticosteroid injections may be considered, although their potent nature warrants their limited use only in severe cases, under professional medical guidance.
