Tennis elbow is a common term for a condition caused by overuse of arm, forearm, and hand muscles that results in elbow pain. It is commonly mistaken for lateral epicodylitis, in which all patients actually rarely play tennis. You don’t have to play tennis to get this, but the term came into use because it can be a significant problem for some tennis players.This condition results from overuse of gym exercise or too many hours at the keyboard. The pain starts from the outside aspect of the elbow over the bone, and is worse when shaking hands or squeezing objects.
Ways you can control tennis elbow:
1. Home stretching exercise
If left alone, the bones get too tight and these simple stretches can loosen up your forearms to help when the problem is in its early phase.
2. Address the underlying cause
What activity caused this pain? You must find the source of the problem. Make sure your work space or gym use equipment is sound.
3. Receive deep tissue work or massage to improve blood flow
High quality massages can break up scar tissue to facilitate healing when the issue is still in its first six weeks- this may also be done by a physical therapist.
4. Put a brace on it.
Brace can reduce tendon by redistributing the pressure and can also provide immediate relief.
5. Topical Creams
These may reduce the side effects you may see normally with oral medications.
6. Avoid repeated cortisone injections
Some steroids can directly damage tendons and increase risk of rupture.
7. Inject your own blood platelets (PRP therapy)
Accelerate healing of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis naturally without subjecting the patient to significant risk
Pain associated with tennis elbow is usually worse when stabilizing or moving the wrist with force. Examples include lifting, using tools, opening jars, or even handling simple utensils such as a toothbrush or knife and fork.
Make sure to keep these tips in mind to prevent yourself from a serious injury! Visit your medical physician so proper diagnosis and evaluation can be made to see if they can help with your tennis elbow pain. Your doctor can then prescribe the appropriate treatment.
