Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that involves constant repetitive movement of the elbow. This action causes the tendons in the elbow to become overused and strained. While the pain primarily occurs within the tendons of the forearm muscles, it could also spread to the wrist and the arm. What causes this condition and how you can prevent it? Let’s take a look at these things closely.
Some Activities that Cause It
The number one activity that causes tennis elbow is, of course, tennis. When playing this sport, if you repeatedly use a poor stroke technique, this could cause the condition to develop. But other activities trigger this ailment as well. Plumbing, carpentry, butchering, and painting are good examples of other jobs that could cause this strain in your elbow. These jobs involve activities, such as driving screws and using plumbing tools, that require constant arm motions. Tennis elbow is common in adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
Ways to Prevent Tennis Elbow
Whether you play tennis or work with plumbing tools, there are several ways you can prevent this condition from happening to you. One excellent way is by regularly engaging in muscle-strengthening activities of your arms. You should invest in barbells to help build muscle in your arms and elbows. Be sure to regularly massage and gently mobilize your elbows and joints. Deep tissue massage therapy could significantly reduce or eliminate the pain. When you are working or playing tennis, wear a tennis elbow splint to also reduce the pain.
If you’re starting to develop inflammation, you might want to see a physiotherapist or an orthopedic doctor immediately. It’s also good to visit a doctor when the cramping in your elbow doesn’t respond well to exercise. In some cases, pain relievers may be advised by a medical practitioner or a doctor.
Tennis elbow causes a painful strain in the elbow and the arm. But by regularly exercising and massaging your arms, you will be regaining its strength and lowering your risk of this condition. If you need relief, contact us at Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine & Sports Medicine. We can help relieve your pain and help you get back to life as normal.
