Tennis Elbow? Get Back In The Game!
Elbow Pain? Tennis elbow is a swelling of the tendons, also known as tendinitis, more specifically, it is an irritation of the tissue connecting the forearm muscle to the elbow. The name indicates a cause however tennis elbow typically develops over time. Repetitive motions such as gripping a racket during a swing, can strain the muscles and cause microscopic tears. Other causes include playing racquetball, squash or even fencing. We see patients showing signs and symptoms of Tennis Elbow, as it affects people with jobs or hobbies that require repetitive arm movements or gripping such as carpentry, typing, raking, painting – even knitters get tennis elbow!
How do you get it?
As noted above, Tennis Elbow isn’t always the result of “getting in the game” – however it is the most popular reason why, hence the name. Anyone can get tennis elbow, but it seems the most common age is 40. Pain is the primary symptom. It usually occurs on the outside of the elbow and sometimes in the forearm and wrist. Patients who come to our office has most times already self-diagnosed the problem – it does require lab tests nor an MRI. But what IS important is seeing a specialist who can help you manage and reduce pain. Symptoms include pain and tenderness in the bony knob on the outside of your elbow. This knob is where the injured tendons connect to the bone. The pain may also radiate into the upper or lower arm. Although the damage is in the elbow, you will likely hurt when doing things with your hands. These everyday movements can cause the most pain:
- Lifting objects
- Making a fist
- Opening a door
- Raising your hand
If Tennis Elbow had a cousin, she would be Golfer’s Elbow, which affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Tennis Elbow, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation. We’ll help you get back in the game!