What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Lateral Epicondylitis, commonly known as “tennis elbow,” is a painful condition affecting the tendons that attach to the outside (lateral) part of the elbow. The condition primarily involves the extensor carpi radialis brevis muscle, which helps to straighten and stabilize the wrist.
In lateral epicondylitis, there is degeneration of the tendon’s attachment, which weakens the anchor site and increases stress on the area. This degeneration can lead to pain during activities that engage this muscle, such as lifting, gripping, or grasping. In spite of the popular name, most cases occur in people who do not play tennis.
Signs & Symptoms Of
Lateral Epicondylitis
- Pain on the outer elbow over the lateral epicondyle.
- Tenderness to touch in the affected area.
- Pain during gripping or lifting activities, such as turning a doorknob, holding a coffee cup, or shaking hands.
- Pain that may radiate down the forearm to the hand.
- Occasional pain with any elbow motion.
Causes of Lateral Epicondylitis
Lateral Epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, most commonly affects individuals between 30 and 50 years old, although it can occur in people of all ages and genders. The condition is often linked to overuse and muscle strain, although the exact cause is not well understood. Repeated tensing of the forearm muscles used to straighten and raise the hand and wrist can trigger symptoms, leading to a breakdown of the tendon fibers that attach these muscles to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow.
Common causes include repetitive gripping and grasping activities, such as meat cutting, plumbing, painting, and using tools. Sports, particularly racket sports with improper technique, are also contributing factors. Less commonly, direct trauma to the elbow may result in swelling and degeneration of the tendon, making it more susceptible to overuse injuries. In many cases, the specific cause remains unknown.
Diagnosis of Lateral Epicondylitis
Diagnosis of Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) typically involves a thorough medical history and a physical examination. During the exam, one of our physicians will assess the affected area by pressing on it and may ask the patient to move their elbow, wrist, and fingers in various ways to evaluate pain and function. If your hand doctor suspects that other conditions may be contributing to the symptoms, imaging tests such as X-rays or sonograms may be need to rule out alternative diagnoses.
Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis
Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) often focuses on alleviating symptoms while allowing the condition to resolve on its own, which can take one to two years. Most cases gradually return to normal, painless function without aggressive intervention.
For mild cases, reducing activities that require a firm grip or heavy lifting can help manage discomfort. If these modifications are insufficient, therapy may be recommended, involving gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to promote tendon healing. An elbow brace, or counterforce brace, can also provide comfort by reducing strain on the affected tendon.
If conservative measures fail, corticosteroid injections may be used to temporarily relieve pain, although they do not promote healing. In rare cases, when all other treatments have been ineffective, surgery may be considered to remove degenerated tissue and stimulate healing in the surrounding area.
Lateral Epicondylitis FAQ
Can Lateral Epicondylitis cause shoulder pain?
Yes, Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) can cause shoulder pain. The pain may radiate from the elbow to the shoulder due to compensatory movement patterns or associated muscle tension.
Why is Lateral Epicondylitis referred to as tennis elbow?
Lateral Epicondylitis is commonly known as tennis elbow because it often occurs in tennis players due to repetitive wrist and arm motions. However, it can affect anyone who frequently uses their forearm muscles, not just athletes.
What is the difference between tennis elbow and golf elbow?
Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) affects the outer part of the elbow and is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles that extend the wrist. In contrast, golf elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the inner part of the elbow and is related to overuse of the muscles that flex the wrist.