Epicondylitis

Epicondylitis (commonly known as tennis elbow) is an inflammation, discomfort, or pain on the outside of part of the arm between the wrist and the elbow.

Epicondylitis Causes

Epicondylitis is often caused by partial tendon fiber tear. These fibers connect muscle to the elbow bone. Overuse of the elbow or the forearm from activity that puts continuous stress on the elbow joint is typically the cause of Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

Epicondylitis is typically associated with tennis playing and this is why it is called tennis elbow. Any activity that involves repetitive twisting of the wrist can lead to this condition. Manual labor jobs are known to cause Epicondylitis from constant twisting in of screws or bolts.

Epicondylitis Symptoms

Epicondylitis symptoms are gradually worsening elbow pain if the activity that is causing it continues. The elbow pain can begin to radiate throughout the entire arm when grasping or twisting, and can eventually lead to loss of arm strength and elbow joint flexibility. If Epicondylitis is not treated and the elbow joint stress continues, it can result in tendon rupture, or nerve entrapment in the forearm.

Epicondylitis Diagnosis, Treatment

Imaging tests do not usually show elbow joint problems with Epicondylitis. Dagnosis is made based on signs and symptoms rather than x-rays.

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and swelling, and to work on body mechanics that do not cause as much stress to the joint. Common treatments are

• Limit activities that cause the injury
• Hot and cold therapy
• Cortisone or epidural injections
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Anti-inflammatory diet
• Physical therapy
• Ultrasound therapy to break up scar tissue and increase blood flow in the area
• Splint to keep the forearm and elbow still
• Surgery if the pain persists despite non-surgical treatments

Most people improve with non-surgical treatment and focus on maintaining good strength and flexibility in the arm muscles or avoid repetitive motions.