elbow LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS
DEFINITION:
- Also known as” tennis elbow”.
- An inflammatory process at the outer aspect of the elbow where the extensor muscles of the forearm attach.
MECHANISM OF INJURY / HOW IT OCCURS:
- Usually a result of overuse of the forearm muscles resulting in micro trauma.
- May also occur from a forceful acute strain.
- Often seen in racquet sports such tennis. (May be caused by poor backhand mechanics).
SYMPTOMS:
- Individuals complain of pain over the outer (lateral) aspect of the elbow.
- Weakness in grip strength.
- Discomfort with lifting objects (example lifting a jug of milk from the refrigerator).
- Most pronounced when lifting with the palm down.
DIAGNOSIS:
- Tender over the lateral epicondyle.
- Discomfort with forced extension of the forearm muscles.
- Racquet player experiences pain with gripping of racquet and extension of forearm.
- Weakness.
- Radiographs to evaluate for arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to confirm diagnosis.
TREATMENT/REHABILITATION:
- Rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).
- Bracing with a tennis elbow strap (counter force brace) is sometimes helpful. The brace removes the stress from the origin of the extensor muscle on the lateral epicondyle.
- Physical therapy to work on stretching and strengthening. (See exercises for Lateral epicondylitis).
- A cortisone injection for persistent symptoms.
- Surgery is rarely indicated.
- Appropriate equipment such as avoiding too small of a grip on the tennis racquet.