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Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition affecting the outside of the elbow. Although it is common in tennis players and other racquet-sport participants, it frequently occurs in people who do not play tennis at all. It is usually related to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, particularly those involved in gripping, lifting, and bending the wrist backwards. The tendon most commonly affected is the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), where it attaches to the outer side of the elbow.
Symptoms
Patients usually complain of pain over the outer (lateral) aspect of the elbow. The pain is often made worse by repetitive use of the hand, gripping objects, lifting, twisting movements, or bending the wrist back against resistance. In some cases, the pain may spread down the forearm and into the hand, and grip strength may feel weaker.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually made clinically following a specialist assessment. Examination typically reveals tenderness over the outside of the elbow, and the pain is often reproduced by resisted wrist extension or gripping activities. Investigations are not always required, but X-rays or scans may occasionally be arranged to exclude other causes of elbow pain if needed.
Treatment
Treatment usually starts with non-operative measures. These may include activity modification, a period of relative rest, painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication where appropriate, physiotherapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and the use of a brace or splint. Simple measures such as heat or ice application may also help relieve symptoms. Most patients improve with time, although recovery can sometimes take several months and, in some cases, up to a year.
Injection treatment may occasionally be considered in selected cases, but it is not routinely recommended for everyone. If symptoms remain severe and persistent despite a full course of conservative treatment, surgical treatment can be considered. This usually involves release and treatment of the diseased extensor tendon origin at the elbow, with particular attention to the ECRB tendon. The operation can usually be performed as a day-surgery procedure.
Further detailed information and the appropriate treatment options will be provided by
Mr. Khalid Ayoub during the consultation. Back...
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