By definition, lateral epicondylitis (aka tennis elbow) is trauma affecting the origin of the tendons of the muscles that extend the wrist. This pathology results from many different causes. The most common are: mechanical problems, anatomical factors and lifestyle/work related tasks and or sport specific factors. Diagnosis of this common syndrome is somewhat straightforward.
Typically its presentation is tenderness over the lateral epicondyle (outside bone region of the elbow joint), pain with activity of the muscles (wrist extensors) or extremity itself, possible weakness of grip strength and discomfort with stretch of the tissue. This pathology is difficulty to treat as with all the “itis’” we’ve been talking about due to the type of tissue that is aggravated. The tendon at the elbow is thick, white and has poor vascularization…. AKA: poor healing.
Ideal treatment includes: “R X 4” REST, REDUCE, RESTORE, RE-ASESS”
- REST or non -painful activity for 4-6 wks in order to control pain and inflammation.
- REDUCE the overload forces – a common piece of equipment that can be used is called the “Band IT”. It serves to take pressure off the irritated tendon and creates a new line of force so that it is possible to continue to perform daily activities with less pain. (This does not heal the tissue all by itself and should not be used as an only source of treatment)
- RESTORE upper extremity weaknesses; improve flexibility, and muscular endurance. Many times therapists find imbalances that may extend all the way to your neck. Learn about how you can strengthen up the chain in order to take pressure off your elbow.
- RE-ASSES: Whether your pain is from the type of work you do, the sport you play or the daily activities that demand your upper body; have a professional help you re-assess your individual anatomical/mechanical deficiencies. Sometimes it is as easy as changing the type of racket you use for tennis, a grip change on your golf club, a need for shoulder strengthening for those who require a lot of grip strength/lifting strength for their line of work.
It will also be important for you to learn about your vulnerabilities to this type of injury again. Do not become a victim of over and over again “flare-ups” Learn what it is about your body that is repairable and manageable. There are a lot of treatment options out there for you. Seek out an answer. Your Physician can send you to physical therapy today to get started on a less painful, less irritated, less aggravated you!!