From the Desk of Bess Fley: Tennis Elbow
It’s that time of year when everyone is itching to get outside and enjoy the nice weather, and what better way than to play tennis or pickleball? Below, we’ll will discuss tips for both on and off the court to help prevent and successfully treat tennis elbow.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, a.k.a. lateral epicondylitis, is when repetitive movement causes inflammation of the tendon that connects the elbow to the forearm muscles. This tendon is called the common extensor tendon. Read below for some easy prevention tips, signs of injury, what puts you at higher risk for developing this condition, and what you can do to treat it.
Risk Factors for Lateral Epicondylitis
- Playing a racket sport for more than 2 hours at a time
- Poor form
- Increased age
- Those who work jobs with repetitive movements
Physical Symptoms
- Pain over the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle)
- Pain with forced wrist extension
Treatment Options
- Rest and/or activity modification
- Tennis elbow band 24/7 except personal hygiene
- Stretches and strengthening exercises from Dr. Grossfeld’s YouTube page
- Prescription oral NSAIDs, such as meloxicam
- Formal physical therapy
- Cortisone injection
Tennis Modifications That May Help
- Book a private lesson at your club to work on form
- Decrease the tension in the strings
- Double grip the racket to decrease grip strength
- Add a shock absorber
If you or anyone you know is struggling with nagging tennis elbow, come in and see us! Not every treatment option is ideal for every patient, so we will discuss the risks and benefits to tailor a treatment plan that will best serve you!
If you or someone you love has suffered a tennis elbow injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, Orthopaedic Specialists, PLLC can help! Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.
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