Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, otherwise known as lateral epicondylitis, is an inflammation of the tendons that attach the forearm extensor muscles to the elbow. The muscles that extend our wrist and fingers are located on top of the forearm, and they collectively join together to form one thick tendon that attaches to the outside of the elbow. This is called the Common Extensor Tendon, and is the tendon that becomes inflamed and painful in tennis elbow. Tennis elbow typically occurs through repetitive strain, usually when the wrist and fingers have been repetitively extended (eg. painting with a paintbrush) or when someone has been gripping an object firmly with their elbow extended (eg. pressure hosing a car). Sometimes the CEO tendon can be torn, either due to degeneration or trauma.

SYMPTOMS:

• Pain on the outside of the elbow
• Swelling
• Reduced strength with gripping or lifting
• Tightness in the muscles of the forearm (extensors)

TREATMENT:

Conservative treatment is the first point of call with tennis elbow. If therapy is not alleviating the symptoms, sometimes a corticosteroid injection can be helpful at reducing the inflammation around the elbow. In severe cases, sometimes surgery is needed to repair the tendon if it has been badly torn.

THERAPY:

• Activity modification
• Splinting to block aggravating movements
• Exercise program
• Strengthening program
• Swelling management
• Soft tissue release
• Thermal and electrical modalities
• Advice regarding work, sport and home duties