TENNIS ELBOW
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common pain condition in the elbow area. It is more likely to develop in people who work in occupations that involve repetitive movements of the wrist and arm. For example, plumbers, painters, carpenters, butchers, some professions that require intensive use of computer keyboards.
CAUSES
Repeated Movements:
Tennis elbow is usually caused by constant and repetitive elbow movements, which is particularly common in tennis players.
Muscle and Tendon Strains:
Excessive stresses and strains on the tendons on the outside of the elbow are the main causes of lateral epicondylitis.
Inadequate Technique:
Lack of proper technique in tennis or similar sports can lead to overload and pain in the elbow area.
Poor Equipment Handling:
Incorrect racket size or tension can cause athletes to overstrain their elbow tendons.
Age and Gender:
It is more common in people aged 30-50 years and is generally more common in men than in women.
SYMPTOMS
Pain:
Severe pain felt on the outside of the elbow.
Swelling and Sensitivity:
Swelling and tenderness to touch in the elbow area.
Strain and Loss of Strength:
Difficulty in hand and wrist movements and loss of strength.
Spread of Pain:
Pain starting from the elbow and radiating to the lower arm and wrist area.
TREATMENT METHODS
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT METHODS FOR TENNIS ELBOW
1. Resting the Arm:
During the treatment process, it is very important to rest your arm properly. Avoiding activities that cause pain, such as tennis, for a few weeks can help recovery.
2.Medicines:
Anti-inflammatory medications, taken on doctor’s advice to keep pain and swelling under control, are commonly used in the treatment of tennis elbow.
3.Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy to strengthen the forearm muscles and heal the tendon is an effective way to treat tennis elbow. Ultrasound, ice massage and muscle stimulation techniques are auxiliary elements used in physical therapy sessions..
4.Tennis Elbow Band:
Support tape applied to the forearm area can help relieve pain by supporting the muscles and tendons. The use of this band can reduce the stress placed on the elbow area during daily activities.
5.Exercise Programs:
Specially designed exercise programs are used to strengthen the muscles in the elbow area and increase flexibility. These exercises, accompanied by a physiotherapist, can make a positive contribution to the treatment process..
6.PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Treatment:
Platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood can be injected into the painful area after a special procedure. This can help speed up healing.
Non-surgical treatment methods can often successfully manage tennis elbow problems. However, each case is unique and different treatment plans may be applied depending on the individual’s condition
SURGICAL TREATMENT METHODS FOR TENNIS ELBOW
Tennis elbow may require surgical intervention in cases that do not respond to non-surgical treatments.
Reasons for Surgical Treatment:
Conditions where tennis elbow surgery may be considered may include:
Long-term Pain and Resistance:
Pain lasting longer than six months and resistant to other treatment methods.
Loss of Function:
Restriction of elbow movements and loss of function.
Severe Damage:
Severe damage or injury to tendons or muscles.
SURGICAL TREATMENT METHODS IN TENNIS ELBOW:
Open Surgery:
- The elbow area is accessed through an incision.
It can usually be performed under local anesthesia. - Rarely may require an overnight hospital stay.
Arthroscopic Surgery:
- It is done through small incisions using a camera and special tools.
- It is less invasive and postoperative recovery is usually faster.
- Can be discharged from hospital on the same day.