Epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, affects the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow. It causes pain and inflammation around the bony prominences on the inside or outside of the elbow. This article provides a comprehensive overview of epicondylitis, including its causes, symptoms and available treatment options.
Causes of Epicondylitis:
Epicondylitis is mainly caused by repetitive or strenuous activities involving the forearm muscles. Common causes include:
a) Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis):
Repeated gripping and wrist-twisting movements, such as those used in tennis and other racquet sports. It can also result from repetitive movements while cleaning, doing manual work or even using a mouse or keyboard.
The risk of injury is higher when poor technique is used during activities such as weightlifting, painting or working with hand tools.
b) Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis):
Repeated wrist bending and forceful gripping, usually associated with golf swings, throwing sports or activities involving repetitive wrist movements.
Symptoms of Epicondylitis:
Symptoms may develop gradually over time and can include the following:
a) Tennis Elbow:
Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow that may radiate into the forearm.
Weakness in the affected arm, making it difficult to grip or lift objects.
Increased pain during activities involving wrist extension or gripping.
b) Golfer’s Elbow:
Pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow that may extend into the forearm.
Weakness in the affected arm, particularly when gripping or bending the wrist.
Increased pain during activities involving wrist flexion or gripping.
Treatment Options:
- Non-Surgical Treatment (Physiotherapy):
Rest and activity modification: Avoid activities that worsen symptoms and allow the affected area to rest and heal.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy: Specific exercises and stretches can strengthen the forearm muscles, improve flexibility and support more lasting recovery, helping prevent reinjury when you return to sport or everyday activities.
Physiotherapy dry needling: This can reduce inflammation and pain in the short term, making physiotherapy exercises easier to tolerate. It also supports tissue healing and releases tight muscles.
Bracing or splinting: A brace or splint can provide support and reduce stress on injured tendons. - Injections:
If conservative treatments are not working well, your physiotherapist and doctor may suggest a cortisone or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection to help address inflammation and pain, followed by continued physiotherapy treatment and exercises. - Surgery (a Last Resort):
In severe or chronic cases where conservative measures have failed, surgery may be recommended. Procedures involve removing damaged tissue, repairing the tendon or releasing tension in the affected tendons. Surgery is generally used when there is actual tendon damage.
Prevention and Rehabilitation:
a) Appropriate technique and equipment: Using suitable techniques and equipment during sports or repetitive tasks can reduce the risk of epicondylitis.
b) Gradual progression: Increasing activity intensity and duration gradually can help prevent overuse injuries.
c) Warm-up and stretching: Before physical activity, an appropriate warm-up and stretching routine can prepare your muscles for the demands ahead.
d) Ergonomics: Maintaining suitable posture and ergonomics at work and during daily activities can reduce strain on the forearm muscles.
e) Rehabilitation: After a period of rest and recovery, gradually reintroduce exercises and activities under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
If you have tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, book an appointment with our physiotherapist. We can HELP!
