Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, it isn’t limited to tennis players; it can affect anyone who performs repetitive arm movements. If you’re dealing with elbow pain in Delhi, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tennis elbow can help you find relief and prevent it from becoming a long-term issue.
What is a Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow. The condition occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outside of the elbow) become irritated or damaged. It is most often caused by repetitive motions, especially those involving gripping or twisting.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
The primary cause of tennis elbow is repetitive stress on the forearm muscles and tendons, often from activities such as:
- Sports: Tennis, badminton, and other racquet sports are common culprits.
- Manual labour: Repetitive actions like lifting, hammering, or using power tools.
- Office work: Frequent typing, mouse use, or writing can strain the forearm muscles.
- Gardening: Repetitive motions such as pruning or raking can also lead to tennis elbow.
Other factors that may increase the risk include poor technique in sports, inadequate equipment, and age (as the tendons lose flexibility over time).
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most noticeable symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outer part of the elbow. Other symptoms include:
- Pain that worsens with gripping or lifting objects.
- Weakness in the forearm or difficulty holding objects.
- Pain radiating down the forearm or up the upper arm.
- Tenderness or swelling around the elbow joint.
If left untreated, tennis elbow can lead to long-term discomfort and weakness.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
- Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rest and Ice: Resting the affected arm and applying ice in acute cases can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles help improve flexibility and prevent future injury.
- Bracing or Splinting: Wearing a brace or elbow strap can reduce strain on the tendons.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For persistent pain, corticosteroid injections at the site of pain may be used to reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments don’t improve the condition after 6 to 12 months, surgery may be considered. The procedure involves removing damaged tissue and repairing the tendons. Dr. Sudhir Kapoor, a leading orthopaedic specialist in Delhi, has years of experience in treating tennis elbow with minimal-invasive techniques for quicker recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Sudhir Kapoor for Tennis Elbow Treatment in Delhi?
(With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Sudhir Kapoor is widely regarded as one of the best orthopaedic surgeons in Delhi. His expertise in treating tennis elbow ensures that patients receive personalized, effective care tailored to their specific needs. Dr. Kapoor’s compassionate approach to treatment and his vast experience in both non-surgical and surgical options make him a trusted choice for those suffering from tennis elbow) Replace with para from prp.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
Preventing tennis elbow involves reducing repetitive strain on the elbow joint. Here are some tips:
- Warm-up before physical activity and stretch regularly.
- Use proper technique in sports, and consider consulting a coach to improve form.
- Choose ergonomic tools for manual labour or office work to reduce stress on the elbow.
- Take frequent breaks when performing repetitive motions to avoid overuse.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, it is highly manageable. Whether you opt for rest, physical therapy, or surgical intervention, seeking care from a qualified orthopaedic specialist like Dr. Sudhir Kapoor in Delhi can help you get back to your daily activities with minimal pain. Don’t let tennis elbow limit your movement—take control of your recovery today!
