What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow, specifically at the lateral epicondyle. This is the point on the outside of the elbow where the forearm muscle tendons attach to the bone. When these tendons become inflamed due to overuse or repetitive movements, it can cause pain, discomfort, and limited mobility.
Although this condition is most commonly associated with sports, especially tennis, it is not limited to athletes. Tennis elbow can occur in anyone who performs activities involving repetitive hand movements, such as working with tools, using a computer, or even everyday tasks that involve repeated hand use in the same direction.
While painful, tennis elbow is usually not considered a serious injury but can significantly interfere with daily activities and quality of life. It is important to recognize it early so that treatment can begin before more serious tendon damage occurs.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
The development of tennis elbow can be caused by various factors including repetitive movements, improper technique, muscle and tendon overload, as well as natural changes that come with aging. Each of these factors contributes to stress on the tendons attached to the outer part of the elbow, which can lead to inflammation and pain.
Repetitive Movements:
Repeated activities involving movement of the hand and wrist can overload the tendons on the outside of the elbow. These activities may be part of sports like tennis, badminton, and golf, but also everyday tasks such as typing, using a mouse, painting, cutting, or using hand tools. Constant and prolonged repetitive movements increase pressure on the tendons, leading to microtraumas that over time develop into inflammation.Improper Technique:
Poor technique when performing sports exercises or even physical work can further strain the tendons around the elbow. For example, bad posture, overly tensed muscles, or improper hand positioning during sports or daily tasks can cause disproportionate tension on the forearm tendons. Using incorrect technique when hitting the ball, holding the racket, or lifting weights can cause excessive loading on the tendons and lead to tennis elbow.Force and Overload:
Exposure of the hands and elbow to intense force or sudden movements can also cause tendon damage. This type of strain can occur during physical labor requiring strong force to lift, move, or push heavy objects. Excessive physical effort or sudden movements that exceed the body’s capabilities can easily lead to injury and subsequent tendon inflammation in the elbow area.Age:
With aging, tendon elasticity decreases, making them more prone to injury. Tendons become less flexible and less able to tolerate repetitive strain. These structural changes increase the risk of tennis elbow in older adults, especially if they are already exposed to constant stress. Older people are more susceptible to tendon damage because tissue regeneration slows down, and tendons that were once resilient in youth become more vulnerable to injury.
Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
Symptoms of tennis elbow can develop gradually, with the individual noticing pain on the outer part of the elbow that worsens during certain activities. The diagnosis is made based on a clinical examination and the patient’s medical history. In some cases, additional diagnostic tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be needed to rule out other potential causes of the pain.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow:
One of the most characteristic symptoms of tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow, often described as sharp, stabbing, or dull. The pain is usually localized around the lateral epicondyle—the bony prominence on the outer elbow—but it can also radiate down the forearm. Tenderness is especially noticeable when touching or applying pressure to this area, which can make everyday activities difficult.Weakness in the forearm:
Forearm muscle weakness is also a common symptom. People with tennis elbow may find it hard to clench their fist or lift objects, especially heavier ones or those requiring wrist bending. Weakness indicates that the tendons and muscles in the forearm are not functioning at full strength due to inflammation and damage.Difficulty performing simple tasks:
Daily tasks such as holding a cup, opening a door, or handling objects can become challenging due to pain and weakness in the hand and forearm. Repetitive movements involving lifting, bending, or rotating the wrist can worsen the pain and make even simple activities harder to perform.Pain that worsens during activity:
Individuals with tennis elbow often notice increased pain during activities that involve lifting, bending, or twisting the wrist or hand. Actions such as throwing a ball, holding a racket, or using tools may cause a sudden or gradual increase in pain. Pain may also intensify during physical activity or exercise when the tendons and muscles are under additional strain.
Treatment Methods for Tennis Elbow at In Locco Center
Treatment of Tennis Elbow requires a comprehensive approach involving various therapeutic methods to reduce symptoms, speed up recovery, and prevent further tendon damage. At our In Locco Physio and Aesthetic Center, we offer modern treatments with advanced techniques and technologies to provide effective and long-lasting relief. Our services focus on relieving pain, restoring arm function, and improving quality of life.
Shockwave Therapy:
This therapy uses high-intensity acoustic waves that stimulate tissue regeneration and improve circulation. Shockwave therapy is especially effective in reducing pain, inflammation, and accelerating healing of injured tendons, allowing for a faster return of function.Ultrasound Therapy:
Sound waves penetrate deeper tissue layers, increasing blood flow and speeding up metabolism in the affected areas. This reduces pain, accelerates regeneration, helps decrease inflammation around tennis elbow, and assists in resorbing swelling and scar tissue.Electrotherapy:
Electrical impulses applied through the skin stimulate muscles and the nervous system, reducing pain and improving circulation. This therapy decreases muscle tension, speeds recovery, and reduces inflammation around the affected tendons.Laser Therapy:
Laser beams enhance microcirculation and promote healing in damaged tissues. This treatment contributes to faster recovery, reduced inflammation and pain, and improved mobility of the affected area.Magnetic Therapy:
Using magnetic fields helps reduce pain and accelerates tissue regeneration. It also aids in reducing swelling and improving circulation in the treated regions.Manual Techniques and Physical Exercises:
Specialized massage and stretching and strengthening exercises around the elbow help reduce tension, improve flexibility, and prevent re-injury. Proper exercises can also ensure better alignment of tendons and muscles, reducing pressure on the affected area.Cold and Warm Compresses:
These are useful for reducing swelling and alleviating pain. Cold compresses are used to decrease acute swelling, while warm compresses help relax muscles and improve circulation.Activity Modification:
It is recommended to reduce or avoid activities that cause pain, gradually introducing lighter exercises and recovery movements. In many cases, modifying how activities are performed can prevent further damage.