In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and most effective treatment options for tennis elbow joint pain.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is not exclusive to athletes; various daily activities and work-related tasks can contribute to its development. Some common causes include:
- Repetitive Strain: Activities like racquet sports, weightlifting, and manual labor can overuse the forearm tendons, leading to small tears and inflammation.
- Overuse of the Elbow: Continuous wrist and elbow movements, such as typing or using a screwdriver, can stress the lateral epicondyle (the bony part of the elbow), leading to pain and stiffness.
- Poor Technique: Incorrect sports techniques or improper lifting habits can increase strain on the tendons, causing damage over time.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow symptoms develop gradually and worsen with continued strain. Common signs include:
✔ Pain and Tenderness: Discomfort on the outside of the elbow, which may radiate to the forearm and wrist.
✔ Weakness in the Arm: Difficulty gripping or lifting objects due to reduced tendon strength.
✔ Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness and pain while extending or flexing the arm, especially during daily activities like shaking hands or opening a door.
Effective Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Although tennis elbow can heal naturally with rest, certain treatments can accelerate recovery and relieve pain effectively.
- Rest and Cold Therapy
???? Avoid repetitive motions that stress the elbow.
???? Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Physical Therapy & Exercises
A physiotherapist can guide you through specialized exercises to improve strength and flexibility, such as:
✅ Wrist Flexion & Extension Stretches – Improves forearm mobility.
✅ Tennis Ball Squeeze Exercise – Enhances grip strength.
✅ Eccentric Strengthening Exercises – Strengthens tendons to prevent future injury.
- Pain-Relief Medications
Over-the-counter painkillers like Ibuprofen and Paracetamol help manage inflammation and discomfort. Topical anti-inflammatory creams can also be applied directly to the affected area.
- Corticosteroid Injections
For severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to provide temporary pain relief and reduce inflammation.
- Surgery (Last Resort Option)
If symptoms persist for more than 6–12 months, a surgical procedure like arthroscopic tendon repair may be required to remove the damaged tissue. However, non-surgical treatments are usually effective in most cases.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
To avoid recurring pain and future injuries, consider these preventive strategies:
✔ Maintain Proper Form: Use correct lifting and gripping techniques to minimize strain on the elbow.
✔ Strengthen Forearm Muscles: Regular wrist flexion exercises improve flexibility and tendon durability.
✔ Take Breaks: If your work involves repetitive hand movements, take frequent breaks to prevent overuse.
✔ Use Supportive Braces: Wearing an elbow brace or strap can provide additional support during physical activities.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow joint pain can interfere with daily activities, but with the right treatment approach, you can restore function and prevent long-term complications. Early intervention, rest, physiotherapy, and proper pain management can significantly improve your recovery. If symptoms persist, consult a specialist for personalized treatment.
For expert sports injury rehabilitation and non-surgical treatment options, visit RegenOrthoSport for specialized care.