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What causes tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive injury to a tendon in the elbow, from overuse of the forearm muscles that attach to it. You do not have to be a tennis player to get these injuries; they can be caused by many other sports or work-related injuries.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a persistent pain in the outer side of the elbow. It is caused by a repetitive injury to a tendon in the elbow from overuse of the forearm muscles attached to the tendon.

What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?

Signs and symptoms of tennis elbow include: pain in the outer side of the elbow that radiates to the forearm; the pain is worse with moving the wrist back or turning the forearm so that the palm is facing upwards; weakness in the forearm; gradual …

Who develops tennis elbow?

Risk factors for tennis elbow include: overuse of the forearm muscles; age - most people are 30 to 50 years of age; incorrect repetitive movements during sports such as tennis or golf, and; work or any activity that requires repetitive use of the forearm muscle, …

How is tennis elbow diagnosed?

Tennis elbow is diagnosed by your doctor based on your description of pain and symptoms. Further testing, such as X-rays or an ultrasound, may sometimes be needed to exclude other causes and/or to assess the severity of tendon damage.

How is tennis elbow treated?

Initially, rest and heat or ice packs may provide relief from the pain caused by tennis elbow. Other treatments include pain-relief medications and physical exercises to improve flexibility and strength. In severe cases that do not respond to treatment, surgery …

Can tennis elbow be prevented?

To prevent strain in the elbow and forearm, which can result in tennis elbow: remember to take frequent breaks from repetitive movements and to stretch after activity; avoid lifting objects with your arms fully stretched out; use wrist supports during weight …

Will tennis elbow keep coming back?

You may experience pain for several weeks during certain sports or work-related activities. Most people respond to treatment, but some will require rehabilitation with a physiotherapist. Always using correct sporting techniques and performing …

What is the outcome for tennis elbow?

With treatment, most cases resolve in several weeks. Surgery may be considered as a last resort for cases that do not respond to treatment after several months.

What increases the chances of developing tennis elbow?

Any activity with repetitive movements of the forearm and wrist can result in tennis elbow. Other factors include being between 30 to 50 years of age and making incorrect repetitive movements.

What can make tennis elbow worse?

Continuing to make incorrect or repetitive movements that place strain on your forearms may make your tennis elbow worse.

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About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 16 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 835 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Joint replacement

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