Tennis Elbow – Lateral Epicondylitis
What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Tennis elbow is a condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. The pain usually comes on with repetitive wrist movements.
It is due to wear (tendinopathy) at the point where the muscles that help to move the wrist insert on the side of the elbow. In some cases, there may be a small tear of this region visible on ultrasound or MRI imaging. It is important to rule other causes for elbow pain, such as elbow arthritis and elbow instability.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is very common and most cases will resolve with a combination of rest, splinting the wrist and avoiding activities that cause the pain. Specific physiotherapy exercises will also help to strengthen the affected muscles. This recovery can take several months.
People who still have pain despite these treatments may benefit from injections, such as PRP (platelet rich plasma). In rare cases, tennis elbow surgery (tendon repair) may be required.