It is a condition that occurs when the tendons outside the elbow are damaged as a result of overuse of the forearm muscles. tennis elbowIt is seen in people who make repetitive hand and wrist movements and takes its name from the fact that it is frequently seen in tennis players. However, it can also be common in people who do not play tennis.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
It occurs when the tendons outside the elbow become inflamed and damaged as a result of overuse of the forearm muscles. It develops in people who make repetitive hand and wrist movements and takes its name from the fact that it is frequently seen in tennis players.
It is usually caused by repetitive hand and wrist movements. These movements cause small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Sports such as tennis, squash and badminton can cause this condition. Especially the use of incorrect technique increases the risk of such repetitive movements.
Excessive use puts excessive stress on the tendons and causes them to wear out over time. This condition is associated with activities that require intense use of forearm muscles. It is frequently seen in tennis players. However, activities such as golf, boating, and even gardening can also cause this disorder.
Using incorrect technique during sports or repetitive tasks increases the stress on the tendons. Additionally, the use of improper equipment can also cause tendons to become overloaded.
With the aging process, the flexibility and durability of tendons decrease. Therefore, the risk is higher in individuals between the ages of 30-50. Additionally, genetic predisposition may also play a role in the development of this disorder.
Weak forearm muscles and inadequate conditioning cause the tendons to be more sensitive to loading. Lack of exercises that increase muscle strength and endurance may increase your risk.
As a result, it is caused by repetitive motion, overuse, etc. Being aware of these risk factors and taking precautions plays an important role in preventing them.
What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?
tennis elbowIt is a condition that occurs when the tendons outside the elbow become inflamed and damaged. It usually develops as a result of repetitive hand and wrist movements.
- The most common symptom is pain and tenderness felt on the outside of the elbow. This pain can radiate from the elbow to the forearm and usually starts mild and becomes severe over time. Sensitivity increases when the elbow area is touched or pressure is applied.
- People may experience weakness and loss of strength, especially in activities that require the use of hands and wrists. This condition manifests itself as difficulty grasping objects, not being able to hold them tightly, or difficulty doing simple tasks.
- Pain may increase during hand and wrist movements such as shaking hands, lifting something, bending or rotating the wrist. Pain becomes more pronounced with repetitive movements or certain positions.
- It can make daily activities difficult. For example, even simple tasks such as lifting a cup, writing, brushing your teeth, or turning a doorknob can become painful. This condition can significantly reduce quality of life.
- Pain usually subsides after rest but reoccurs when activities resume. In advanced cases, pain may continue at rest.
Symptoms appear in various ways. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
tennis elbowIt is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Treatment of this condition is done using various methods to relieve pain and promote healing of the elbow.
The first step of treatment is to rest the elbow and avoid activities that cause pain. It is important to protect the tendon by avoiding repetitive movements and heavy lifting. Choosing alternative activities can speed up the recovery process.
Ice can be applied to the elbow to reduce pain and swelling. Wrapping ice in a thin towel and applying it for 15-20 minutes several times a day can be effective. NSAIDs can be used to relieve pain and inflammation. These drugs should be taken with the recommendation of a doctor.
Physical therapy offers specific exercise programs to strengthen elbow muscles and increase flexibility. Exercises determined by a physical therapist can help heal the tendon.
Special elbow bands or wristbands protect the tendon by reducing stress on the elbow. These supports can provide relief to the elbow during daily activities. In cases of severe pain, corticosteroid injections relieve inflammation and pain. However, this treatment method is not recommended as a long-term solution and should be applied in limited numbers.-
When conservative treatment methods fail, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgery is performed to repair or remove damaged tendon tissue. This method is used as a last resort and the recovery time is longer.
tennis elbow Treatment is determined according to the patient's condition and the severity of the symptoms. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most patients can recover without the need for surgical intervention. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations during the treatment process.
