Treating Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that occurs when the tendons in your elbow get overused. This involves inflammation, or even tiny tears, of the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow. 

Symptoms of tennis elbow include recurring pain on the outside of the upper forearm, just below the elbow, that can radiate down the arm toward the wrist. Pain is often felt when lifting or squeezing objects.

Here are some common conservative treatment options for tennis elbow:

• Rest: This is often the best medicine for tennis elbow. Taking a break from activities that put stress on your elbow can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for your wrist and forearm can help to reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Heat therapy: Applying heat to your elbow can help to relax muscles and reduce pain and inflammation.
• Cortisone injections: In some cases, cortisone injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Forearm brace: A forearm brace can help to alleviate pressure on the tendons and muscles in your elbow.
• Splint: Wearing a splint can help to rest your arm and reduce stress on your elbow.

In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat tennis elbow. However, most cases can be treated effectively with conservative methods.

If you’re suffering from elbow pain, schedule an appointment online with one of our elbow doctors at Mountain Valley Orthopedics or call (570) 421-7020.