Tennis elbow, a common affliction, can cause significant discomfort and limit daily activities. This blog by Dr S Mahanta, top orthopedician in Dwarka, Delhi will explain the various factors contributing to this injury, its symptoms, and practical solutions for relief and recovery.

What is Tennis Elbow Injury?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the tendons in the elbow. It is often caused by overuse, such as repetitive gripping or wrist extension during sports or other activities. Tennis elbow can also be caused by trauma to the elbow, such as banging or knocking it.

What causes tennis elbow injury?

Tennis elbow is often caused by gripping, wrist extension, or forearm supination. It can include activities like playing tennis, squash, or badminton or using tools like plumbing tools.

Other causes of tennis elbow include:

• An incorrect backhand stroke in tennis
• Weak shoulder and wrist muscles
• Using a tennis racket that is too closely strung or too short
• Hitting the ball off-centre on the racket, or hitting heavy and moist balls
• Using plumbing tools
• Painting
• Driving screws
• Cutting up foods for cooking, particularly meat
• Using a computer mouse a lot

Symptoms of tennis elbow injury

The pain can start slowly or suddenly and may get worse over time. Other symptoms include:

• Pain that spreads down the arm to the wrist, even when resting.
• Pain when placing the arm and hand palm down on a table and then trying to raise the hand against resistance.
• Pain while attempting to raise and handle little things, such as a coffee cup
• A weak grip.
• Increased pain with activities that involve the forearm, such as holding a glass, opening a door, or extending the forearm.
• Pain that’s worse when using the arm, particularly for twisting movements.
• Pain is made worse by repetitive wrist movements, such as extending the wrist and gripping.

Diagnosis of tennis elbow injury

A bone doctor can diagnose tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, with a physical exam and medical history:

Physical examination

The doctor can gently press on the lateral epicondyle to test for pain and tenderness. In addition, you may be asked to do a series of movements with your elbow, wrist and fingers. For instance, the doctor might ask you to flex your wrist upward or extend your fingers upwards against resistance when such an arm is completely straight.

Medical history

During the examination, you may be asked to describe whether you experience stiffness and pain and inform whether there were activities that made it worse or improved the feeling.

In some cases, the doctor may also recommend additional tests to rule out other causes of your elbow pain, such as:

• X-ray to examine the bones of your elbow
• MRI to show your tendons and the amount of damage
• Ultrasound
• Electromyography (EMG) to show if you have any nerve problems in your elbow.

Treatments for tennis elbow injury in Dwarka, Delhi

• Rest: Stop the activity that causes the symptoms and modify your daily routine to allow the ligaments to heal.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the area every 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling and prevent tissue damage.
• Compression: Wrap your elbow with a tight elastic bandage to support it and decrease swelling.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises: A physiotherapist can show you exercises to keep your arm mobile and strengthen your forearm muscles.
• Bracing: Keep the area still for a few weeks with a brace or use a special brace for activities.

When the pain persists despite trying conservative methods for about a year, your doctor might suggest surgery. This procedure usually involves removing damaged muscle and connecting healthier muscle to the bone. It’s a step taken when other treatments haven’t provided enough relief, aiming to address the underlying issue and improve your life.

How to prevent tennis elbow injury?

Tennis elbow can be prevented by reducing repetitive arm movements and strengthening your arm muscles. Here is how to prevent tennis elbow injury:

• Warm-up: You must gently stretch your arm muscles before using your arms for sports or other repetitive activities.
• Use proper technique: You should use your arm instead of just your wrist or elbow and make smooth motions. Avoid bending or straightening your arm all the way. If you play a racquet sport, use lightweight equipment with a larger grip to reduce strain on your tendons.
• Take breaks: Change your position frequently or take breaks throughout the day. If you feel pain during an activity, stop immediately. If the pain worsens, see a doctor.
• Strengthen your muscles: A physiotherapist can advise you on exercises to build up your forearm, shoulder, elbow, and wrist muscles.

When to see an orthopedician in Delhi?

If you have persistent pain or discomfort in your elbow, especially if it interferes with your everyday activities or if you observe swelling or a limited range of motion, you should consult a bone doctor. If you suspect you have tennis elbow, seeking medical advice early can help in getting the right diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include rest, physical therapy, or other interventions to heal symptoms and prevent further injury.

Ready to regain control of your mobility and live pain-free? The bone clinic is the top choice for patients in Delhi for quick relief. Our team of dedicated orthopedic specialists is committed to providing personalised treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for your orthopaedic concerns.

Book a consultation or visit The Bone Clinic Orthopedic hospital in Delhi to get quick relief from pain.