Tennis elbow is a common injury among tennis players, characterized by pain in the elbow and forearm. It’s caused by repetitive strain to the muscles and tendons around the elbow joint, often due to improper technique or overuse.
Understanding Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow involves inflammation or micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. It’s not limited to tennis players but is prevalent due to the sport’s repetitive arm motions.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weakness in the forearm, and difficulty with gripping tasks. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests.
Preventing and Treating Tennis Elbow
Prevention includes using proper technique, ensuring appropriate racket grip size and string tension, and doing strengthening and flexibility exercises. Treatment may involve rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.
Tennis Elbow: A Manageable Condition
With proper management and preventive measures, tennis elbow can be controlled, allowing players to continue enjoying the sport while minimizing the risk of injury.