Tennis Elbow
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What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is a condition that is also called lateral epicondylitis. It affects the lateral (outside epicondyle) side of the elbow. Tennis Elbow is a chronic degenerative condition, which involves the tendons where they attach at the elbow
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow can occur as a result of overuse. Historically it was seen in people playing racquet sports, hence the name tennis elbow.
Symptoms of tennis elbow
The main symptom of tennis elbow is pain which spreads from the outside of the elbow to the forearm and wrist, and is made worse by physical tasks.
Other symptoms of tennis elbow include morning stiffness around the elbow and forearm muscles.
Treatment options for tennis elbow
Tennis elbow can be improve with rest and through modifying activities. Other treatments include elbow clasps and physiotherapy. If these treatments do not improve symptoms, injections with steroid and local anaesthetic or PRP (platelet rich plasma) can be effective.
If the treatments outlined are unsuccessful, tennis elbow surgery is indicated and this removes the damaged tendon tissue around the elbow. This is usually a day case procedure with recovery usually taking 3 months after surgery.
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