Tennis Elbow - How To Avoid Or Treat

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) is a common causes of elbow pain. Tennis Elbow is characterised by pain over the outer side of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. Despite the name, Tennis Elbow does not just afflict tennis professionals. In fact, this common elbow problem (it affects about 3% of the population) is most often associated with work-related activities, although racquet sports players are more prone to the condition and account for approximately 5% of all sufferers. Tennis Elbow is equally common in men and women, peaking in prevalence between the ages of 30 and 50.

Tennis Elbow usually begins as inflammation of the extensor tendons of the forearm as they attach to the Humerus (upper arm) bone, just above the elbow joint. Typically this inflammation is caused by prolonged gripping activities such as hammering, driving screws, weight lifting, playing certain musical instruments, canoeing, digging in the garden, driving and, of course, racquet sports.

If these activities are continued, then the inflammatory nature of Tennis Elbow can give rise to a chronic tendon problem that is characterised by pain, weakness and degeneration of the tendon. This elbow problem can then be very persistent and much more difficult to treat.

Tennis Elbow Treatment

Since severe Tennis Elbow is an inflammatory condition, the obvious treatment would be a short course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ), prescribed by a doctor. Anti-inflammatory gel can also be helpful to relieve Tennis Elbow pain. Some doctors may even inject the affected area with a corticosteroid (a naturally occurring substance which can settle down inflammation).

The Aircast Elbow Cryo/Cuff is the most effective method of providing ice therapy is the professional's choice. It can provide continuous ice cold water and compression for 6 to 8 hours to significantly reduce pain and inflammation.

In addition to anti inflammatory treatments, it is important that the patient reduces the strain on the painful area, otherwise the treatments can simply mask the pain while the condition gets worse. Ideally the patient should rest from aggravating activities for around two weeks to allow the inflammation to settle down. If it's not possible to rest completely then a compression strap (elbow support) is very effective at reducing the stress on the painful area, whilst allowing the user to continue with activities.

Once the severe elbow pain has subsided rehabilitation under the supervision of a Chartered Physiotherapist can cure the problem and prevent a recurrence. A progressive strengthening programme using resistance bands has been shown to be the best long term approach to Tennis Elbow.

Tennis Elbow Preventio

Tennis elbow is caused by gripping activities, and gripping either too hard or for too long can bring on the pain. Make sure the item that you are gripping, whether it's a tennis racquet, a hammer, or a canoe paddle, is the correct size for your hand. If it is too small it will cause you to grip too hard. If you play a racquet sport for the first time in a long while or you have to decorate a room in one weekend, make sure you take regular breaks and stretch the muscles which work over the wrist by doing 'limp wrist' and 'policeman halting traffic' type stretches.

For those who have suffered from Golfers Elbow in the past it may be a good idea to wear a compression strap (elbow support). These work by reducing the strain on the painful area by preventing the wrist muscles from contracting fully during sporting and work activities.

Many thanks to Dr. Asif Qasim MA PhD MRCP, a consultant cardiologist with an interest in sports medicine, who contributed to this article and also to http://www.physioroom.com

Written by Yunis Kha

Email: Yunis@comenplay.com

Web: http://www.comenplay.comn