The majority of injuries occur as a result of overuse. The movement of the elbow joint is determined by muscles and tendons, with the condition inhibiting motion of the forearm.
Despite the name suggesting otherwise, tennis elbow is not primarily a tennis based injury but something typically experienced through non-sporting activities such as painting or playing the violin.
What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?
Sufferers will typically report an acute pain beneath the elbow joint in the first instance and can hinder movement of the forearm in bending and lifting items. You may also notice inflammation of the surrounding muscles of the elbow joint. In general the pain is centred on the outside of the elbow which differs from golfer’s elbow where pain is centred on the inside of the elbow. The most important thing to remember if you feel pain in the elbow joint is to stop and rest to avoid further damage being caused.
What are the causes of tennis elbow?
The condition largely results from overuse and whilst can be as a result of non-sporting related activities, can equally occur on the tennis court. The repetitive nature of a task whereby pressure is applied to the elbow joint, such as swinging a racket, can lead to the onset of the condition.
Can tennis elbow be treated?
It is a largely a self-limiting condition in that it will get better in time following periods of rest. Recovery can range from anything between 6 months and 2 years. Ice can be used to help manage the inflammation as well as reducing any pain felt. Another form of recovery becoming more popular is the use of a sports brace.
A tennis elbow support is designed specifically to manage the symptoms of tennis elbow by offering compression to the outside of the elbow. For sufferers of golfer’s elbow the brace can simple be rotated to apply pressure to the inside of the elbow.
Compression is a feature of many sports braces, designed to help manage inflammation and reduce pain to enhance mobility and performance during recovery. The tennis elbow support is designed to be breathable and conform to the elbow joint so that it can be worn discreet and won’t begin to slip as a person perspires.
In more serious cases surgery may sometimes be considered to mend the damaged muscles and tendons and can result in a longer period of time on the sidelines. The support can still be used however following surgery to offer additional support throughout your recovery.
If you believe you are suffering from tennis elbow then it is advisable to seek a professional diagnosis where the extent of the injury can be assessed to understand if any additional forms of treatment are required other than rest.