Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow joint. It is an overuse injury that typically develops as a result of repetitive hand and arm movements.

Although tennis elbow is common among tennis players, it can also affect non-athletes such as computer users, carpenters, plumbers, and cleaning workers.

In tennis elbow, the pain occurs where the tendons of the forearm and hand muscles attach to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow, called the lateral epicondyle. The pain may radiate into the forearm and wrist.

Rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy are usually effective in relieving symptoms. For those who do not respond to these treatments or have symptoms that interfere with daily life, injection therapies or surgery may be considered.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by pain over the bony bump on the outside of the elbow joint, called the lateral epicondyle. Also known as lateral epicondylitis, this overuse injury involves inflammation and small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle.

What Is Epicondylitis?

Epicondylitis refers to inflammation and damage to the tendons around the elbow joint. It occurs in two primary areas of the elbow:

• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Affects the outer part of the elbow and is commonly associated with repetitive wrist and hand movements. While it is frequently seen in tennis players, it can occur in anyone performing similar repetitive motions.

• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow): Affects the inner part of the elbow and is commonly seen in golfers, though it can also affect people engaged in other activities.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

The tendons of the muscles that lift the wrist upward (dorsiflexion) merge from the forearm and attach to the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow.

Tennis elbow develops due to overuse of these wrist-extending muscles, particularly the extensor carpi radialis brevis. A pathological condition called angiofibroblastic hyperplasia is often responsible.

It is more frequently seen in:

• Tennis players

• Painters

• Workers who use hammers

• Manual laborers who lift heavy objects

• People who work long hours on the computer

• Gardeners

• Musicians

Tennis elbow is often caused by poor technique. Holding a racket, hammer, or tool in a gripping position while the wrist is extended upwards (dorsiflexion) places excessive stress and strain on the muscles and tendons, leading to tennis elbow. This is especially common among beginners who are new to racquet sports and use incorrect form.

Tennis elbow can also occur as a result of direct trauma, such as hitting the lateral epicondyle (the outer bony part of the elbow) against a hard object like a wall.

What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Pain on the Outer Side of the Elbow:There is gradually worsening pain over the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow, called the lateral epicondyle. The pain may radiate to the forearm and wrist, especially when gripping objects.

Initially, pain occurs only during hand and wrist movements, but over time it may become constant and even disturb sleep at night.

Reduced Grip Strength:Due to pain during gripping, the strength of the hand weakens. Bending the wrist backward (extension) causes increased pain in the elbow.

How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

Tennis elbow is diagnosed through a detailed physical examination and listening to the patient’s history. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to rule out other conditions.

Difference Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are both conditions that cause pain around the elbow joint, but they affect different areas and stem from different repetitive movements. Here are the key differences:

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

• Location: Pain and tenderness around the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow (lateral epicondyle).

• Cause: Usually results from repetitive movements of the wrist and fingers. Although common in tennis players, it also affects carpenters, painters, gardeners, and frequent computer users.

• Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, which may radiate to the forearm and wrist. Pain increases when shaking hands, lifting objects, or bending the wrist.

• Treatment: Rest, pain relievers, physical therapy, injection therapies (PRP, cortisone), and in rare cases, surgery.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

• Location: Pain and tenderness around the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow (medial epicondyle).

• Cause: Caused by repeated flexion of the wrist and fingers, or strong gripping. Though common in golfers, it also affects people involved in repetitive hand activities (e.g., weightlifters, carpenters).

• Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow, possibly radiating to the forearm. Difficulty with wrist and hand movements, weakness, and decreased grip strength.

• Treatment: Rest, pain relievers, physical therapy, injections (such as PRP and cortisone), and rarely, surgery.

How Is Tennis Elbow Treated?

The primary step in treatment is to avoid the movements that trigger pain and to stretch the forearm muscles.

Activity Modification:

Reduce or modify the frequency and intensity of your activities. For instance, if you play tennis three times a week for an hour, reduce it to twice a week for 45 minutes. Avoid all movements that increase your pain.

Physiotherapy:

An experienced physiotherapist can release tight forearm extensor muscles through manual therapy, helping relieve symptoms.

Grip Technique Correction:

Gripping objects with the wrist in a neutral position (straight) helps protect against developing tennis elbow.

Use of Splints and Epicondyle Bands:

Wrist splints can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, while epicondyle bands reduce tension in the muscles. In clinical practice, short-term use has shown partial improvement in some patients.

Ultrasound-Guided Injections:

Injection options include cortisone, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), PRGF, and Sanakin. These are administered under ultrasound guidance for precision.

Tennis Elbow Exercises

Watch this video to learn the stretching and strengthening exercises you should perform for tennis elbow:👉

When Is Surgery Needed for Tennis Elbow?

If tennis elbow does not improve with non-surgical treatments, and symptoms persist for more than 6 months, surgical intervention may be considered.

Is Surgery a Definitive Treatment for Tennis Elbow?

Yes, surgery is considered a definitive solution for persistent cases of tennis elbow. In chronic and stubborn cases, surgery is performed to resolve the condition.

How Is Tennis Elbow Surgery Performed?

The procedure is called lateral epicondyle release surgery. Surgery is seen as a last resort, and only about 1 in 10 patients actually requires it.

The goal is to remove the damaged tissue in one of the five tendons attaching to the outer elbow, specifically the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, which typically shows angiofibroblastic hyperplasia. The remaining healthy tissue is then repaired and sutured.

If done through the open method, a 5 cm incision is made.

It can be performed under general or regional anesthesia, and hospitalization is not required after the procedure.

What Is the Recovery Process After Tennis Elbow Surgery?

The surgical wound usually heals in 10–14 days. Movement of the elbow is allowed after surgery. You may experience pain for 4–5 days, which can be managed with painkillers and cold therapy.

Once the wound heals, it is important to follow a strengthening exercise program to regain full function.

Tennis Elbow Patient Reviews

Patient reviews about tennis elbow can serve as a valuable guide for those considering treatment or surgery but still feeling hesitant. Here are some of the reviews we’ve received:

• "When I started the treatment, the pain was unbearable. However, thanks to the exercises and rest period recommended by my doctor, I saw great improvement."

• "The physical therapy process was quite challenging, but the results were amazing. I hardly feel any pain in my elbow now."

• "During my consultation, the doctor was very attentive and explained everything in detail. I felt very relieved."

• "I started physical therapy, and within a few weeks my pain started to ease. I’m so glad I went."

• "Dr. Utku supported me at every stage. He answered all my questions patiently and made me feel confident."

Tennis Elbow Patient Experiences

Real experiences from patients with tennis elbow can be a helpful source of insight for others facing the same condition. These shared stories provide valuable information about the most effective treatments and help others in choosing the right doctor. Here are some of our tennis elbow patient reviews:

• "At first, I was really scared when I was diagnosed with tennis elbow, but Dr. Utku managed the process beautifully. He recommended physical therapy, and after 2 months my pain was significantly reduced. I can now do my daily tasks without any problem."

• "I work at a desk job and spend long hours at the computer. Eventually, I developed unbearable elbow pain. Dr. Utku suggested a cortisone injection. I was hesitant at first, but the pain started to go away immediately after the injection. I’m now completely fine."

• "I used to wake up at night due to elbow pain. I was very afraid of surgery, but Dr. Utku explained everything clearly and eased all my concerns. After the surgery, the pain disappeared—I feel like I was reborn."

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow

How can I heal tennis elbow fast?

To recover quickly from tennis elbow, you should first avoid the movements that trigger your pain. Rest, ice therapy, and strengthening exercises are key to speeding up recovery. In some cases, PRP treatment or a cortisone injectionmay provide faster relief. We develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient and closely monitor the healing process.

How do I know if I have tennis elbow?

If you feel pain on the outer part of your elbow, especially when shaking hands, lifting objects, or moving your wrist, you may have tennis elbow. You may also experience weakness in your forearm. To make a definitive diagnosis, we need to evaluate your condition and conduct the necessary tests.

What causes tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow usually develops due to overuse of the wrist and forearm muscles. Repetitive motions cause small tears in the tendons, which lead to pain. Although it's common among athletes, everyday activities such as typing or carrying heavy loads can also cause the condition.

Does a tennis elbow strap really work?

Yes, a tennis elbow strap can be an effective supportive device. It helps reduce the stress on the elbow and relieves pain, making movement easier. However, it is just a supportive tool. A long-term solution requires a proper treatment plan and its consistent application.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow is a common condition marked by pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow joint. It usually results from repetitive hand and arm movements.

Athletes, computer users, carpenters, and cleaning workers are frequently affected. The pain originates at the point where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow and can radiate to the forearm and wrist.

Initial treatment includes rest, pain medication, and physical therapy. If the pain persists, injections or surgery may be required.

Post-surgery recovery is supported with exercises, and for persistent cases, tennis elbow surgery offers a definitive solution.

Thank you for reading our article. Feel free to visit our homepage at utkuerdemozer.com for more information.