What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis Elbow is referred to as inflammation of the tendons of the elbow, most specifically the lateral aspect caused by overuse of the muscles of the forearm. Irritation to the outside of the elbow can cause pain with activation and depending on the severity can cause pain at rest at the site of inflammation.
Tennis Elbow is not isolated to tennis players or athletes for that matter. This is a common condition that affects people of all walks of life depending on the use of that particular body part. This is an irritation to the lateral aspect of the elbow which can be cause by a myriad of circumstances and problems.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow causes pain, sometimes with a burning sensation, in the bony knob (known as the lateral epicondyle and radial head) of the elbow and the surrounding muscles. Pain or tingling can also be felt in the hand and wrist with overuse of the forearm muscles. Usually there is an increase in swelling and tenderness in the muscles due to overuse.
Over time, the arm muscles may become weak when gripping or squeezing and result in limited range of motion. The structures most affected in tennis elbow are the lateral collateral ligament of the forearm, the extensor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi radialis longis, extensor carpi radialis brevis, the supinator, and anconeus muscle.
Rehab Tips
Rest is the initial and most important step in the healing of tennis elbow. Muscles that are overused simply need time to relax and rest. Ice packs 2-3 times a day will help to reduce any inflammation that occurs. If symptoms persist for more than 3-4 weeks, therapy is advised to provide soft tissue treatment and to teach proper stretching exercises to speed up the healing process.
If you need treatment for tennis elbow in Knoxville, TN, call us today to schedule an appointment.