Tennis Elbow not just for Tennis Players
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common over-use injuries. It is estimated that over half the people who play tennis are afflicted with this injury at some point in time. However, the term may be somewhat of a misnomer as less than 5% of those who suffer from tennis elbow actually play tennis.
Tennis elbow is a form of tendonitis; tiny tears occur in the tendons and then inflammation sets in. Degeneration in the joint is also thought to play a role in this injury. The symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside (lateral) of the elbow, just below the joint’s bony prominence. You may also feel pain on the outside of the upper forearm, pain when you bend the elbow, pain when lifting objects and possibly even discomfort when grasping small objects. The onset of pain is usually gradual, but there are times when it happens suddenly.
Lateral epicondylitis occurs in the dominant arm in 75% of those afflicted. Manual laborers and those who play racquet sports are more likely to suffer from this injury.
There are a couple similar conditions that cause elbow pain. Golfer’s elbow is a similar affliction, but it causes pain on the inside (medial) part of the elbow. Another similar injury is bursitis, which causes pain and inflammation on the back side of the elbow.
If you are suffering from tennis elbow, you should take a break from doing what causes it. This is relatively easy to do for the weekend tennis player, but not so easy for the manual laborer who needs to work. Other possible remedies include aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory medicines, a massage and corticosteroid injections. However, rest is the most important step you can take to relieve the pain.
Tennis elbow can be a painful condition, but it is not usually considered serious. However, if left untreated it can sometimes lead to loss of elbow function and movement. It is best to put down your racquet for a few weeks, or if you are a manual laborer, learn to take breaks throughout the day.
Tags: Tags: bursitis, elbow pain, lateral epicondylitis, remedies, tendonitis, tennis elbow
