Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain around the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, you don’t have to be a tennis player to develop it. The condition often results from repetitive arm and wrist movements, making it common in people whose activities involve similar motions, such as typing, gardening, or painting.
At our injection clinic in Cheadle, Cheshire, we provide effective treatments, including medical steroid injections, to help relieve tennis elbow symptoms and restore normal function.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow become inflamed or damaged due to overuse. These tendons, specifically the extensor carpi radialis brevis, play a critical role in wrist and forearm movements. Repeated strain on this area leads to small tears in the tendon, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The symptoms of tennis elbow typically develop gradually and may include:
• Pain and Tenderness: Pain is usually felt on the outer part of the elbow and may extend down the forearm.
• Weak Grip Strength: Activities such as shaking hands, holding a mug, or turning a doorknob can become difficult.
• Increased Pain with Activity: Pain may worsen with repetitive movements of the wrist and arm, such as lifting, gripping, or typing.
• Stiffness in the Elbow: Some people experience stiffness in the elbow, especially after periods of inactivity.
These symptoms can vary in intensity, from mild discomfort to significant pain that interferes with daily tasks.
Treatments for Tennis Elbow
Most cases of tennis elbow improve with non-surgical treatments, though recovery can take several weeks or months. The treatment options include:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Reducing activities that aggravate the condition is essential to allow the tendons to heal. This might involve taking breaks during repetitive tasks or using ergonomic tools.
2. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Physical Therapy
Stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to the forearm muscles can improve flexibility and prevent future strain. A physiotherapist may also recommend techniques like massage or ultrasound therapy.
4. Steroid Injections
For more persistent or severe cases, corticosteroid injections can be highly effective. These injections reduce inflammation and provide targeted pain relief, often with quick results. At our Cheadle clinic, we specialise in delivering precise, guided steroid injections to treat tennis elbow and other joint conditions.
5. Bracing or Splinting
A brace or forearm strap can offload stress from the tendons, reducing pain during activities.
6. Shockwave Therapy
Some patients benefit from extracorporeal shockwave therapy, which uses sound waves to promote healing.
7. Surgery
In rare cases where symptoms persist despite treatment, surgery may be recommended to remove damaged tissue.
Seeking Professional Help
At our injection clinic in Cheadle, Cheshire, we understand how debilitating tennis elbow can be. Our expert team provides tailored treatments, including steroid injections, to help manage symptoms and restore mobility.
If you’re struggling with elbow pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact us today to learn more about our treatments and take the first step toward relief.
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