Treatment for Tennis Elbow - Elbow Tendonitis

Caused by chronic overuse of the arm, forearm, and hand, tennis elbow is the common term describing a sudden or slow developing injury to the muscles and tendons surrounding the elbow. Tennis elbow is also considered a form of elbow tendonitis. It is called tennis elbow because it is a relatively common ailment that affects tennis players, as well as other athletes who regularly make use of their arms and elbows, including golfers, swimmers, and weightlifters.

Pain related to tennis elbow is typically localized where the forearm and the bony portion of the elbow meet, in the dominant arm of the injured patient. Other symptoms of tennis elbow include pain on the outside of the elbow, pain that intensifies when squeezing objects or moving the wrist forcefully.

To treat tennis elbow, expert orthopedic surgeon Dr. Reisch will examine the arm in question and review your symptoms, as tennis elbow is not always readily diagnosed through x-rays or other scanning technology. Once a physical examination is complete, Dr. Reisch will determine the course of treatment that will best address your tennis elbow.

Physical therapy is a common treatment for tennis elbow, and involves stretching and strengthening exercises to restore function and reduce pain. Other methods of treatment for tennis elbow include stabilizing the area through bracing, and anti-inflammatory or cortisone topical treatments. In extreme cases of tennis elbow, surgery may be considered as a treatment option.