What is tennis elbow?
Have you noticed sharp pains in one or both of your elbows? Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylosis, lateral tendinosis, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that involves tendons located around the outside of the elbow.
If you’re an athlete, you may be familiar with the term “tennis elbow,” but this is a condition that anyone can sustain.
These tendons, which anchor the muscle to bone, work to extend the wrist or fingers. Over time these tendons degenerate, weakening the attachment site and placing a strain on the muscles.
Although many therapists can treat Tennis Elbow ~ it pays to see an expert trained in the best methods of recovery from this condition, especially in chronic cases. We are the areas only clinic with Board Specialty Certification in Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist and Hand Conditions. This makes Ozark PT Specialists your proven choice for addressing your Elbow Pain and getting you back to living the life you want to live! Our therapists will complete a thorough hands-on evaluation of your elbow and develop a plan with you to get you back in action and able to use your elbow and arm without pain.
If you’re in search of pain relief from tennis elbow (or any other upper extremity pain condition) give Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists in Mountain Home, AR a call today to schedule an appointment.
Common symptoms of tennis elbow
Patients report pain around their elbow, most commonly on the lateral epicondyle, a bony point immediately above the outside of the elbow. It’s possible that the area will be tender to the touch. Patients may experience weakness and an inability to carry out ordinary activities such as lifting a cup of coffee.
How did I get tennis elbow?
Many people who are diagnosed with tennis elbow have never even touched a tennis ball! The tendon attachment to the lateral epicondyle can be strained by any activity, such as gripping or repeated grasping. The most prevalent age range is 30-60 years old, yet it can affect individuals of any age group.
Do I have to have surgery for tennis elbow?
Anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections into the sore area are examples of conservative (nonsurgical) therapy options available through a physician. A doctor can also send you to a hand therapist who can help you. If the discomfort is severe and/or the symptoms have been present for six months or longer, surgery may be considered.
How can hand therapy help me?
A hand therapist can provide conservative management for the treatment of tennis elbow, with the goal to return the patient back to normal work, home and sports activities.
Various treatments can be utilized, such as heat, ice, ultrasound, massage or electrical stimulation. The therapist will often prescribe stretching and strengthening exercises. Following any surgery for tennis elbow, therapy is important to regain motion and strength.
A therapist can help identify what activities might aggravate symptoms, and discuss activity modifications. A custom-fabricated brace or orthosis for the wrist might be recommended to rest the area.
Ready to find true pain relief today?
If you are struggling with tennis elbow, contact Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists in Mountain Home, AR for a visit and let’s get you on the road to recovery.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!