Tennis Elbow Treated in Arlington, VA
Tennis elbow is a painful injury that results from overuse of the forearm muscles and extensor tendons that help extend the wrist and fingers. Common among athletes, this chronic condition can develop from repeatedly swinging a racquet. It can also result from occupational or recreational activities that involve vigorous and repetitive use of the extensors, such as painting, carpentry, butchery and weightlifting. Over time, the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the bony bump on the outer elbow (lateral epicondyle) can weaken, become inflamed and develop tiny tears.
If you have persistent elbow pain, you can consult with a specialist at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, Virginia. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, including tennis elbow.
Identifying Tennis Elbow
Usually, tennis elbow develops gradually and does not result from one specific injury. The pain may be mild at first, then slowly worsen over several weeks or months. Other symptoms can include:
- Intensified pain when the arm is extended
- Burning sensations that radiate from the outer elbow through the wrist and the back of the hand
- Weakened grip strength
- Difficulty bending or twisting the forearm, such as when turning a doorknob or opening a jar
- Tenderness and swelling around the elbow
To diagnose tennis elbow, a physician will begin by asking about the symptoms and any prior elbow injuries. Next, the physician will perform a physical examination that includes various tests, such as extending the arm and attempting to straighten the wrist and fingers against resistance. The physician will also apply gentle pressure to the lateral epicondyle to check for pain and tenderness. To rule out other causes, such as arthritis, nerve compression or a herniated disc in the neck (which can cause arm pain), the physician may order one or more imaging scans.
Treating Tennis Elbow
Conservative tennis elbow treatment is often successful. Many patients benefit from a combination of:
- Resting their arm for several weeks
- Taking a pain reliever or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)
- Applying ice as needed to reduce pain and swelling
- Performing stretches and exercises to strengthen their forearm muscles
- Wearing a counterforce brace to relieve pressure on their forearm muscles and tendons
- Checking their racquet or other equipment, if applicable, for proper fit and function
Other treatment options may be considered to address severe or persistent symptoms, such as injections, Tenex or surgery. Tennis elbow surgery may involve relieving pressure on the injured tendon, repairing damaged tissue and/or reattaching healthy muscle to bone.
If you have chronic elbow pain, an orthopedic specialist at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center can determine the cause and suggest a treatment plan to help you find relief. Request an appointment at our orthopedic enter in Arlington, VA, by calling (703) 525-2200 today.