Lateral Epicondylitis (or Tennis Elbow)
Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is an inflammation of the muscles that connect
to the outer portion of your elbow. These muscles can be inflamed and cause pain and tenderness
over the lateral epicondyle. The pain radiates down the forearm. This will cause weakness of the
wrist and hand as well as pain in the elbow. Tennis elbow can occur because of a repetitive
motion, particularly when gripping objects such as: tennis racket, golf clubs, steering wheel,
carpentry and typing.
General Symptoms:
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Pain or tenderness on the outside of the elbow.
Pain made worse by lifting a heavy object.
Pain when gripping objects.
Pain that shoots down the forearm.
Diagnosis:
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Your physician will perform a full exam on your elbow and upper extremity. If injury is
severe, your physician may send you for an Xray and/or MRI. Your physician may
prescribe physical therapy as a treatment.
Treatment:
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Rest
Ice Massage
Exercises recommended by your physical therapist.
Taking an anti-inflammatory or pain medication as prescribed by your physician.
An injection of a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
Rehabilitation:
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Your physical therapist will examine your injury and provide an individualized program
based on their findings and what your physician has prescribed. Your physical therapy
may include modalities to reduce inflammation and pain; range of motion, flexibility,
balancing, strengthening, and endurance exercises; and manual techniques to help you
return to pain free activities of daily living and recreational activities.
Prevention:
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Surgery is an option in severe cases when progress is not seen because pain has not been
relieved. Surgery is often a last resort for reducing pain.