Elbow pain can be attributed to a number of potential causes, but one of the most common causes of elbow pain is tennis elbow. Although named for the sport in which it occurs most frequently, tennis elbow can occur to anyone at any time. It is caused by overuse or extended use of the elbow joint in repetitive motion. Here’s what you need to know about tennis elbow and how it is treated.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become inflamed. This is usually caused by repetitive movement. Tennis players, other sports players, factory workers, construction workers, and other career options that involve repetitive movement may lead to tennis elbow over time, especially if you start using the elbow repetitively in a way that you have not done in the past.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Our doctors always try nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments before turning to surgery to correct the problem. Some of the nonsurgical treatments that are available for tennis elbow include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and shock wave therapy. These treatments will be attempted before surgery is discussed.
Surgical Interventions
If nonsurgical treatments do not resolve tennis elbow, surgery may be necessary. During surgery, the diseased muscle is removed from the elbow, and healthy muscle is attached back to the bone. This can be done through open surgery, in which a large incision is made in the elbow to perform the operation. However, in many cases minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery can be highly effective and comes with less recovery time.
If you have been dealing with elbow pain that might be tennis elbow, don’t hesitate to get treatment. The longer you wait to get treatment, the more likely surgery will become necessary. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.