What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow or tennis elbow is a painful condition caused by overuse or incorrect use of the tendon insertions on the outside of the elbow. The tendons are part of the muscles that stretch the forearm and wrist. The tendons can become irritated, inflamed or damaged through repetitive or unusual movements, for example when playing tennis. This leads to pain, which can intensify when stretching the hand or gripping. Sometimes the pain radiates into the upper arm or hand.
How is tennis elbow diagnosed?
Tennis elbow is usually diagnosed by asking about the symptoms and carrying out a physical examination. Various tests are carried out to check the pain and mobility of the elbow. For example, the arm is stretched and the wrist flexed while the doctor applies light pressure to the tendon insertion. If this causes pain, this indicates tennis elbow. In some cases, imaging procedures such as X-rays or ultrasound can also be used to rule out other causes of the pain.
How is tennis elbow treated?
The treatment of tennis elbow aims to relieve the inflammation, promote healing and reduce strain. This includes the following measures:
- Rest: The affected arm should be put under as little strain as possible to reduce irritation of the tendons. However, this does not mean that the arm must be immobilized. Light movements are important to maintain blood circulation and mobility.
- Cooling: Short ice treatments can help to reduce swelling and pain. To do this, wrap a cold pack in a cloth and place it on the elbow for about 15 minutes. This can be repeated several times a day.
- Medication: Painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can inhibit the inflammation and alleviate the symptoms. However, they should only be taken for a short time and in consultation with your doctor, as they can have side effects.
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy treatment can help to stretch, strengthen and relax the muscles and tendons. This includes exercises for the forearm and wrist, manual therapy such as massage or mobilization of the elbow and physical therapy such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
- Bandages or splints: A special brace or splint can support the forearm and reduce traction on the tendon insertion. However, it should not be worn permanently as it can weaken the muscles.
- Injections: In some cases, an injection of cortisone directly into the tendon insertion can help to reduce the inflammation quickly. However, this treatment should only be used rarely as it can damage the tissue.
- Surgery: If all other measures do not help sufficiently, surgery may be considered. This involves making a small incision in the elbow and removing or releasing the irritated part of the tendon.
How can you prevent tennis elbow?
To prevent tennis elbow, it is important to vary and dose the strain on your arm. This includes the following tips:
- Warm up: Before any sporting or physical activity, the arm should be warmed up well to make the muscles and tendons supple.
- Stretching: Regular stretching exercises for the forearm and wrist can reduce tension in the tendons and improve mobility.
- Breaks: Regular breaks should be taken to relax the muscles and tendons during long or one-sided strain on the arm.
- Technique: When playing sports such as tennis or golf, you should pay attention to correct technique to avoid incorrect posture and overloading. Professional instruction or a trainer can help with this.
- Equipment: The equipment should be adapted to individual needs, for example the size and weight of the racket or the hardness of the stringing.
- Ergonomics: When working at a computer or checkout, attention should be paid to the ergonomic design of the workstation, for example the height of the desk, the position of the keyboard and mouse or the lighting. Good posture and a relaxed hand position are also important.