What is Tennis Elbow: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

what is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow can occur in anyone, not just avid tennis players. It is often caused by repetitive activities that strain the muscles and tendons in the forearm. This strain leads to small tears in the tendons, resulting in inflammation and pain. Common activities that can contribute to tennis elbow include playing tennis, lifting weights, using a screwdriver, painting, and even typing on a keyboard.

What are the causes that lead to tennis elbow?

Here are some common causes of tennis elbow:

• Overuse or repetitive strain
• Sports activities
• Occupational factors
• Incorrect technique or equipment
• Age and gender
• Poor conditioning and muscle imbalance

what are tennis elbow symptoms

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. It typically occurs due to repetitive motion or overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to inflammation and microtears in the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow.

The symptoms of tennis elbow may include

• Elbow pain
• Weak grip strength
• Tenderness
• Pain during activities
• Stiffness:
• Pain radiating down the forearm

How to diagnose tennis elbow?

There are several special tests that can be performed to diagnose tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis. Here are a few commonly used tests:

Cozen’s Test: In this test, the patient is asked to make a fist with their thumb inside the fingers. The examiner then stabilizes the patient’s forearm and applies resistance while the patient extends their wrist. Pain on the outer side of the elbow during this movement is considered a positive sign for tennis elbow.

Mill’s Test: The patient’s forearm is pronated (turned downward) and the examiner applies passive wrist extension, while also palpating the tendon on the outer side of the elbow. Pain or tenderness in this area is considered a positive sign.

Maudsley’s Test: The examiner resists the extension of the middle finger while the patient tries to extend it against the resistance. Pain or weakness in the wrist extensor muscles can be an indication of tennis elbow.

Resisted Middle Finger Extension Test: Similar to Maudsley’s test, the examiner applies resistance to the extension of the middle finger. Pain or weakness in the wrist extensors during this movement can suggest tennis elbow

Does physical therapy really help tennis elbow?

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment and rehabilitation of tennis elbow. Its primary goal is to reduce pain, promote healing, restore range of motion, and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons. The benefits of physical therapy include:

• Pain Relief: Physical therapy techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, and ice therapy can provide immediate pain relief by reducing inflammation and promoting blood circulation.
• Improved Functionality: Through targeted exercises and stretches, physical therapy helps restore flexibility, strength, and coordination, enabling you to perform daily activities without discomfort.
• Speedy Recovery: Properly guided physical therapy can accelerate the healing process by promoting tissue repair, preventing further damage, and reducing the risk of future injuries.
• Avoiding Surgery: In many cases, physical therapy can effectively resolve the tennis elbow without the need for surgical intervention. It is often recommended as a conservative treatment option before considering more invasive measures.

Which therapy is best for tennis elbow?

Physical Therapy Techniques are best for tennis elbow. Physical therapists employ various techniques to address tennis elbow and its associated symptoms. Some of the commonly used techniques include:

Manual Therapy: This hands-on approach involves targeted manipulation and mobilization of the affected muscles, tendons, and joints to relieve pain, improve the range of motion, and enhance healing.

Ultrasound Therapy: By utilizing high-frequency sound waves, ultrasound therapy increases blood flow, promotes tissue healing, and reduces inflammation in the affected area.

Therapeutic Exercises: Physical therapists prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles, improve flexibility, and promote proper biomechanics. These exercises may include wrist curls, eccentric exercises, and stretching routines.

Brace or Splint Application: Wearing a brace or splint can provide support to the affected area, reduce strain on the tendons, and promote healing.

Ergonomic Modifications: Physical therapists assess and suggest modifications to your workplace or daily activities to minimize repetitive motions and reduce the risk of re-injury.

What are Effective Exercises for Tennis Elbow?

Engaging in targeted exercises can greatly assist in the recovery from tennis elbow. Here are some effective exercises that your physical therapist may recommend:

Wrist Extension Stretch: Gently bend your wrist backward, holding the stretch for 15-30 seconds. Repeat this stretch several times a day to improve flexibility.

Eccentric Wrist Curls: Hold a lightweight, such as a dumbbell, and slowly lower it down with your affected wrist while keeping your elbow bent. Repeat this movement for 10-15 repetitions, gradually increasing the weight as tolerated.

Forearm Pronation and Supination: Hold a light dumbbell and rotate your forearm inward (pronation) and outward (supination) in a slow and controlled manner. Perform 10-15 repetitions on each side.

Ball Squeeze: Hold a stress ball or tennis ball in your hand and squeeze it firmly for 5 seconds, then release it. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 repetitions to improve grip strength.

What helps tennis elbow naturally

There are several natural remedies and self-care measures that can help alleviate the symptoms of tennis elbow. Here are some suggestions:

Rest: Giving your arm and elbow adequate rest is crucial to allow the injured tendons to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain and try to modify your movements to minimize strain on the affected area.

Ice or cold therapy: Applying ice or a cold pack to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply it for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, especially after activities that trigger pain.

Compression: Wearing a compression band or brace around the forearm may provide support and help reduce strain on the tendons. It can also help reduce swelling.

Physical therapy exercises: Specific exercises and stretches can help strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. Consult with a physical therapist who can guide you on appropriate exercises for tennis elbow.

Ergonomic modifications: Evaluate your work or sports equipment and make ergonomic modifications to reduce strain on the forearm muscles. This may involve adjusting your grip, using ergonomic tools, or using proper techniques to minimize repetitive movements.

Topical creams or gels: Over-the-counter topical creams or gels containing ingredients such as menthol or capsaicin may provide temporary pain relief. Follow the instructions and precautions mentioned in the product packaging.

Herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as arnica or turmeric, are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for tennis elbow is limited. Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies to ensure they are safe for you.

What is the difference between tennis elbow and tendonitis?

Tennis elbow and tendonitis are related conditions, but they refer to different areas of inflammation in the arm.

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, specifically refers to the inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow. These tendons connect the forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow. It is typically caused by repetitive motion or overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to microtears and inflammation in the tendons.

On the other hand, tendonitis is a more general term that describes inflammation of a tendon anywhere in the body. Tendons are the thick cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Tendonitis can occur in various parts of the body, such as the shoulder, knee, wrist, or Achilles tendon. The specific name of the tendonitis depends on the location where the inflammation occurs, such as rotator cuff tendonitis or patellar tendonitis.

What is better for tennis elbow ice or heat?

When it comes to treating tennis elbow, both ice and heat can be beneficial, but they serve different purposes at different stages of the condition.

Ice: In the early stages of tennis elbow or when you experience acute pain or inflammation, applying ice can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Ice helps to constrict blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the area, which can reduce inflammation. You can apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a thin cloth to the affected area for about 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Be sure to allow your skin to rest and warm up between icing sessions to avoid any potential damage from prolonged exposure to cold.

Heat: Heat therapy is more beneficial during the later stages of tennis elbow when the acute inflammation has subsided, and you are dealing with chronic pain or stiffness. The heat helps to increase blood circulation, relax muscles, and promote healing. You can use a warm towel, or a heating pad, or take a warm shower to apply heat to the affected area. It’s generally recommended to apply heat for around 15-20 minutes at a time, a few times a day.