Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition resulting from overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons near the elbow joint. Despite its name, this ailment is not limited to tennis players. It can affect anyone engaging in repetitive arm and wrist activities. The primary symptom is pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. This pain may extend down the forearm and wrist, especially when gripping objects or lifting. A tennis elbow band can help to reduce pain.
Causes, Diagnosis, and Prevention
The underlying cause of tennis elbow is microtears in the tendons attaching the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle, a bony prominence on the outer elbow. These microtears result from repetitive stress and overuse, leading to inflammation and pain. Common activities that can trigger tennis elbow include playing racquet sports, painting, plumbing, and using hand tools extensively.
Preventive measures for lateral epicondylitis include proper technique in sports and activities, strengthening forearm muscles, and taking regular breaks to avoid repetitive strain.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s activity history. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, usually through:
- Rest
- Ice
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Physical assistance items like counterforce elbow bands
A tennis elbow band is recommended to reduce strain on the affected tendons. Severe or persistent cases might require corticosteroid injections or even surgery to remove damaged tissue and promote healing. A tennis elbow band, also called a counterforce brace, helps relieve the pain of tennis elbow by reducing the stress on the affected area.
Here’s how it works:
1. Spreads Pressure: The band applies gentle pressure to the forearm muscles, changing the direction of the force on the tendon. This spreads out the pressure and takes it off the painful spot.
2. Reduces Strain: By moving the stress away from the elbow, the band eases the strain on the injured tendon, helping to reduce pain and prevent further injury.
3. Supports Muscles: The band provides support to the forearm muscles, reducing muscle fatigue and preventing overuse. This support helps the muscles work more effectively and heal faster.
4. Eases Pain: The brace provides less strain on the tendon and more support for the muscles, reducing the overall pain from tennis elbow and making it easier to move and use the arm.
For the band to be effective, it should fit snugly below the elbow but not be too tight. Proper placement is important to get the best results. The tennis elbow band must be worn 24/7 except for personal care for a total of 6 weeks to get the best results.
If you or someone you love has suffered a sports (can be topic-specific if necessary) injury in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at 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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