Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many athletes, especially those who frequently use their arms and wrists in repetitive motions. While it is named after tennis, this condition is not exclusive to tennis players.
Athletes of all kinds, as well as individuals who regularly engage in activities like gardening, painting, or typing, can experience tennis elbow symptoms. Recognizing when to seek treatment for tennis elbow pain is essential to prevent the condition from worsening and to regain full functionality.
In this blog, we will explore the causes and symptoms of tennis elbow, the benefits of early treatment, and how to determine if you need to consult a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon.
What Is a Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to your elbow become inflamed or irritated. This condition is typically caused by repetitive arm and wrist movements, which strain the muscles and tendons surrounding the elbow joint.
Over time, microscopic tears in the tendon tissue can lead to pain and discomfort.
When Should You Seek Treatment for Tennis Elbow Pain
While mild cases of tennis elbow often improve with rest and basic self-care, there are situations where professional help is necessary. You should visit a tennis elbow doctor if you have the following conditions.
Pain Persists for More Than a Few Weeks
If your pain does not improve after a few weeks of resting and applying ice, it is time to seek medical attention. Prolonged discomfort may indicate a more severe issue that needs expert evaluation.
Pain Interferes with Daily Activities
If tennis elbow pain prevents you from performing routine activities like gripping objects, typing, or preparing meals, it is a sign you need professional care.
Over-the-Counter Medications Do Not Help
If anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) do not reduce your pain, a doctor may recommend more effective treatments.
Loss of Strength
Tennis elbow can lead to weakened grip strength over time. If you find it difficult to hold objects or feel like your arm strength is declining, speak with an orthopedic specialist.
Swelling or Severe Pain Develops
Swelling or severe pain in the affected area could signal other underlying issues, such as damage to the surrounding tendons or ligaments.
Why Is Early Treatment Important
Ignoring tennis elbow symptoms can lead to long-term problems. Over time, untreated inflammation can cause chronic pain and potentially lead to permanent damage to the tendon.
Seeking treatment early not only ensures faster recovery but also prevents complications that may require more invasive solutions in the future.
By acting promptly, many individuals can resolve their symptoms with non-invasive treatments, avoiding surgical options. Early tennis elbow treatment also ensures you can quickly return to the activities you enjoy without risking further injury or long-term issues.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow Pain
If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, it is crucial to consider seeking tennis elbow treatment. Below are some options your sports medicine doctor may recommend based on the severity of your condition.
Rest and Activity Modification
Taking a break from activities that worsen your symptoms can often give your tendons the opportunity to heal. Adjusting your technique or working with a sports medicine doctor to modify your form can also help minimize strain on your elbow.
Physical Therapy
Exercises that strengthen the muscles and tendons around your elbow can improve your symptoms over time. A physical therapist may design a personalized plan for you, focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises that gradually restore functionality.
Medications
Your tennis elbow doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen (Aleve) to reduce tennis elbow pain and inflammation. If these options are not effective, they might suggest additional anti-inflammatory treatments for tennis elbow.
Brace or Splint
Wearing a brace or a forearm strap can help relieve tension on the affected tendon, reducing pain and preventing further damage while you heal.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Some doctors, including sports medicine specialists, may recommend PRP therapy. This treatment involves injecting platelets from your blood into the affected elbow area to stimulate healing.
Surgery
In severe cases where pain persists despite other tennis elbow treatments, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery to repair the damaged tendon.
Keep in mind that this is typically a last resort after exhausting other options.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow Pain in Plantation, Florida
If tennis elbow pain is holding you back, do not wait for the symptoms to worsen. Seeking treatment for tennis elbow pain early is the key to recovering quickly and protecting the health of your elbow.
At Baylis & Brown Orthopedics, our team specializes in personalized care for sports injuries like tennis elbow. We offer a range of services, from physical therapy to advanced options like PRP therapy, all aimed at helping athletes and active individuals return to peak performance.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic doctors, call us today at (954) 476-8800 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
