Expert Tennis Elbow Treatment for Lasting Pain Relief & Mobility Restoration
Find Relief and Strength with Next Journey Orthopaedics
At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we understand how tennis elbow can disrupt your daily activities, making even simple tasks painful. Our team of orthopaedic specialists is dedicated to providing expert diagnosis and personalized treatment options to help you recover and regain full function.
What is Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition is not limited to tennis players; it commonly affects individuals who perform repetitive arm motions, such as painters, carpenters, mechanics, and office workers who use a computer mouse extensively.
Without proper treatment, tennis elbow can become a chronic issue, leading to persistent pain and weakness in the forearm. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and improve recovery outcomes.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Patients with tennis elbow often experience:
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Pain or burning sensation on the outer part of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm.
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Weak grip strength, making it difficult to perform tasks such as holding a cup, turning a doorknob, or shaking hands.
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Stiffness and tenderness around the elbow, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
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Increased discomfort with repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as typing, lifting objects, or using tools.
Risk Factors for Tennis Elbow
Several factors increase the risk of developing tennis elbow, including:
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Repetitive Motions and Overuse
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Activities that involve repetitive wrist extension, gripping, or twisting movements can strain the tendons, leading to microtears and inflammation.
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Age and Degenerative Changes
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Tennis elbow is most common in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50, as tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury with age.
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Occupational and Sports Activities
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Jobs that require repetitive arm movements, such as construction work, plumbing, and desk jobs, increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Athletes in sports like tennis, golf, baseball, and weightlifting are also at higher risk.
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Improper Technique or Equipment
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Using incorrect techniques during sports or manual work can place excessive stress on the tendons. For example, a poor backhand stroke in tennis or improper lifting mechanics can contribute to injury.
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Diagnosing Tennis Elbow
At Next Journey Orthopaedics, our specialists conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:
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Physical examination to assess tenderness, pain, and range of motion.
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Strength and resistance tests to determine how the tendons respond to stress.
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Imaging tests, such as X-rays to rule out arthritis or fractures, and MRI or ultrasound if further assessment of soft tissue damage is needed.
A precise diagnosis allows us to develop the most effective treatment plan for your recovery.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Our approach to treatment is tailored to the severity of the condition, focusing on non-surgical methods first, with surgery considered only when necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatments
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Rest and Activity Modification – Avoiding repetitive movements that exacerbate the condition.
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Physical Therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
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Bracing or Splinting – Wearing an elbow brace to reduce strain on the affected tendon.
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Medications – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation.
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Injections – Corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for targeted pain relief and healing.
Surgical Treatment Options
If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment for six to twelve months, surgery may be considered. Lateral epicondyle release surgery involves removing damaged tissue and reattaching healthy tendons to restore function. Our surgeons specialize in minimally invasive procedures, which result in shorter recovery times and reduced post-operative discomfort.
Why Choose Next Journey Orthopaedics?
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Expertise in Upper Extremity Conditions – Our board-certified orthopaedic specialists have extensive experience treating tennis elbow with both conservative and surgical techniques.
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State-of-the-Art Technology – We use advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive procedures for optimal patient outcomes.
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Personalized Treatment Plans– Every patient receives individualized care tailored to their specific condition and lifestyle.
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Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs – We provide physical therapy and long-term prevention strategies to reduce recurrence risk.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Tennis elbow should not interfere with your daily activities or quality of life. At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we offer expert diagnosis, advanced treatment, and comprehensive rehabilitation to help you regain full function and mobility.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and begin your journey to recovery.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks with conservative treatment, while more severe cases can take several months to heal completely. Physical therapy can help speed up the recovery process.
2. Can tennis elbow heal without treatment?
In some cases, mild symptoms may improve with rest and activity modification. However, untreated tennis elbow can become a chronic condition, leading to prolonged pain and loss of function. Seeking early treatment improves recovery outcomes.
3. What can I do to prevent tennis elbow?
To reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow, consider:
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Using proper technique in sports and work-related activities.
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Strengthening forearm muscles to improve tendon resilience.
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Taking frequent breaks from repetitive arm movements.
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Using ergonomic tools and braces when necessary.
4. When should I see an orthopaedic specialist for tennis elbow?
You should seek medical evaluation if:
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Pain persists for more than a few weeks despite home treatments.
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You experience severe weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
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Daily activities are significantly affected due to pain or stiffness.