Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the outer part of the elbow. It is commonly associated with repetitive motions, such as those involved in playing tennis, but can also be caused by other activities that put repetitive stress on the forearm and elbow.
The symptoms of tennis elbow typically include:
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- Pain: Pain is the most common symptom of tennis elbow and is usually located on the outer part of the elbow.
- Swelling: Swelling may occur on the outer part of the elbow.
- Weakness: Tennis elbow can cause weakness in the forearm, making it difficult to grip objects.
- Stiffness: The elbow may feel stiff and difficult to move.
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Treatment for tennis elbow may include rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, brace or splinting, corticosteroid injections, and in severe cases, surgery. It is also important to modify activities that may have contributed to the development of tennis elbow to prevent re-injury.
If you are experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can determine the cause of the pain and develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Early treatment can help to prevent further injury and promote healing.
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the forearm and elbow. This can cause small tears in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bone on the outer part of the elbow. The most common cause of tennis elbow is the repetitive use of the forearm and wrist, especially when gripping and lifting objects.
Other causes of tennis elbow include:
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- Sports: Tennis is the most common sport that leads to tennis elbow, but it can also be caused by other racquet sports, as well as activities such as golfing, weightlifting, and throwing.
- Repetitive work: Repetitive work tasks, such as using a computer mouse or keyboard, can put stress on the forearm and elbow and lead to tennis elbow.
- Poor technique: Using poor technique when engaging in physical activities can put additional stress on the forearm and elbow and lead to tennis elbow.
- Previous injury: A previous injury to the forearm or elbow can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.
- Age: Tennis elbow is more common in people over the age of 40, as the tendons and muscles in the forearm and elbow can become weaker with age.
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If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the outer part of your elbow, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can determine the cause of the pain and develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Early treatment can help to prevent further injury and promote healing.
The symptoms of tennis elbow can vary from person to person, but typically include:
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- Pain: Pain is the most common symptom of tennis elbow and is usually located on the outer part of the elbow. The pain may radiate down the forearm and wrist.
- Weakness: Tennis elbow can cause weakness in the forearm, making it difficult to grip objects.
- Stiffness: The elbow may feel stiff and difficult to move.
- Tenderness: The outer part of the elbow may be tender to the touch.
- Swelling: Swelling may occur on the outer part of the elbow.
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If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor can determine the cause of the pain and develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Early treatment can help to prevent further injury and promote healing.
The cure for tennis elbow will depend on the severity of the injury and the individual’s specific needs. Here are some common treatments for tennis elbow:
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- Rest: Resting the affected arm can help to reduce pain and promote healing. In some cases, a brace or splint may be necessary to immobilize the joint.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve flexibility. This can help to reduce pain and prevent re-injury.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the elbow.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrate of growth factors and platelets into the affected area to promote healing.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat tennis elbow. This can include procedures to repair damaged tendons or remove damaged or diseased tissues.
- Modifying activities: Modifying activities that place excessive stress on the elbow can help to reduce the risk of re-injury. This may include reducing the intensity of physical activity or avoiding certain movements.
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It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow. A doctor can determine the cause of the injury and develop a treatment plan that is best for you. Early treatment can help to prevent further injury and promote healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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