Ever feel a sharp, persistent pain on the outside of your elbow? That’s often lateral epicondylitis, more commonly known as tennis elbow. Despite the name, you don’t need to play tennis to get it. This condition happens when the tendons around the elbow get overloaded, causing pain and discomfort.
So, what exactly causes tennis elbow? It’s mostly due to repetitive movements that strain the tendons where your forearm muscles attach to the elbow bone. Think of activities like painting, typing, or even heavy lifting—anything that involves repetitive wrist and arm motions. Over time, this wear and tear leads to tiny tears and inflammation in the tendons.
Identifying lateral epicondylitis is key to preventing it from worsening. Common signs include pain or burning on the outer part of the elbow, especially when gripping objects or lifting. You might also notice weakness in your wrist or hand. The pain can sometimes radiate down your forearm, making everyday tasks like opening jars or shaking hands uncomfortable.
Luckily, you don’t always need surgery or expensive treatments. Rest is the first step—give your elbow a break from those repetitive movements. Applying ice can help reduce inflammation, while over-the-counter pain relievers can ease discomfort.
Physical therapy is often recommended. Therapists can guide you through exercises that stretch and strengthen your forearm muscles, helping tendons heal and reducing the risk of recurrence. Wearing a brace or strap around your forearm can also lower strain on the elbow during activities.
In some cases, doctors may suggest corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma therapy if pain persists. But these are usually last resorts after trying simpler options.
Preventing lateral epicondylitis means paying attention to your daily habits. Take breaks during repetitive tasks, use proper techniques when lifting or gripping, and gradually build up strength in your arm muscles.
At XLPharmacy, we understand how frustrating elbow pain can be. Exploring trusted resources and consulting healthcare professionals can get you on the path to relief and better arm health.
As a tennis enthusiast, I recently experienced a painful condition called tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis. This condition occurs when the tendons in the outer part of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. Some common symptoms include pain and tenderness around the outer elbow, stiffness, and a weak grip. Although its name suggests that it only affects tennis players, anyone can develop tennis elbow, especially those who engage in activities that involve repetitive wrist and arm motions. To treat this condition, it's crucial to rest the affected area, apply ice, and consider physical therapy or anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief.