Tennis Elbow Treatment - Physiotherapist Kaan Akın

Tennis elbow is a condition also known as lateral epicondylitis and is characterized by pain and discomfort in the elbow area. Tennis elbow usually occurs as a result of repetitive movements or overuse. Although this condition is common in people who play tennis, it can also develop in activities other than tennis. Tennis elbow treatment includes various methods and usually starts with conservative treatment methods. Here are the methods used to treat tennis elbow:

1. Rest: Limiting activities and resting the elbow are important to promote healing. It is important to avoid activities that cause pain and to adapt to the rest period.

2. Ice application: Ice can be applied to relieve pain and reduce swelling. An ice pack or ice massage can be used. Ice should be applied to the elbow area for 15-20 minutes and repeated several times a day.

3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs your doctor recommends can reduce pain and inflammation. You should consult your doctor before using these drugs.

4. Physical therapy: Physical therapy is an effective option in the treatment of tennis elbow. Methods such as exercises, massage, manual therapy and ultrasound applied by the physiotherapist are used. These treatments can help strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and reduce pain in the elbow area.

5. Exercise and stretching: The right exercise program and stretching routines are important in the treatment of tennis elbow. These exercises strengthen muscles while increasing flexibility and reducing pain in the elbow area. Special exercises and exercises that target the wrists, arm and shoulder muscles can be done.

6. Elbow bandage or strap: An elbow bandage or strap can be used to reduce pain and provide support in the elbow area. This can relieve pain by distributing the load on the elbow.

7. Injections: In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy may be considered. These are methods used to relieve pain and promote healing. However, you should follow your doctor's direction for such injections.

Tennis elbow treatment can usually be successfully managed with conservative methods. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, your doctor may consider surgical options. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary and is usually considered a last resort. It is important that you follow your doctor's instructions during the treatment process and avoid certain movements.

What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by pain and discomfort in the elbow area. Here are the symptoms of tennis elbow:

1. Elbow pain: The most obvious symptom of tennis elbow is pain in the elbow area. Pain is usually felt on the outside (lateral epicondyle), but can sometimes be felt on the inside (medial epicondyle). The pain usually starts gradually and can get worse over time.

2. Elbow tenderness: The elbow area may be tender to the touch. Pain may be felt, especially when light pressure is applied on the lateral epicondyle.

3. Difficulty grasping: People with tennis elbow may have difficulty grasping or squeezing objects. For example, pain and difficulty may be felt when squeezing a handbag or a cup.

4. Elbow movement limitation: People with tennis elbow may experience limited elbow movements. Pain and limitation may be felt, especially during the movements of bending and straightening the elbow.

5. Tenderness in aching muscles and tendons: The muscles and tendons in the elbow area can be tender. Sensitivity may be felt especially in the extensor muscles and tendons located on the outer side (lateral epicondyle).

Tennis elbow symptoms often occur as a result of repetitive motion or overuse. Symptoms usually worsen over time and can affect daily activities. If you have elbow pain and symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will guide you for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of tennis elbow is usually made by physical examination and evaluation of symptoms. Here are the methods used to diagnose tennis elbow:

1. Physical examination: Your doctor will examine the elbow area and identify painful points. It also evaluates elbow movements and can test muscle strength. A physical examination is important to rule out other possible causes and to make the correct diagnosis for tennis elbow.

2. Symptom assessment: Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms and the severity of the pain. It is important to specify information such as when the pain started, how long it has lasted, which activities trigger the pain.

3. Radiological imaging: Generally, radiological imaging methods, especially X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are not used to diagnose tennis elbow. This is because tennis elbow is usually a condition caused by repetitive movements or overuse, not the result of a structural problem.

The diagnosis of tennis elbow is made by a combination of symptoms and physical examination. In most cases, no additional imaging tests are needed. However, if you think your symptoms are serious or related to other conditions, your doctor may perform additional tests if necessary.

If tennis elbow is suspected, it is important to contact a healthcare professional. Your doctor will assess your symptoms, make the correct diagnosis, and assist you by recommending the appropriate treatment plan.