Tennis Elbow

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What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many individuals, not just athletes. It can cause significant discomfort and impact daily activities. At Evolve Medical Group, we understand the importance of addressing this condition holistically, ensuring that our clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs.

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that occurs when the tendons in your elbow are overloaded, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, tennis elbow affects more than just tennis players. Anyone who engages in activities that require repetitive arm movements can develop this condition.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is primarily caused by overuse and muscle strain. The repeated stress on the tendons, especially those that are involved in extending the wrist and fingers, leads to small tears and inflammation. Some common activities that can cause tennis elbow include:

Sports

Tennis, squash, and racquetball.

Occupational tasks

Painting, carpentry, and plumbing.

Recreational activities

Gardening, knitting, and playing musical instruments.

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What Symptoms Will I Experience with Tennis Elbow?

The symptoms of tennis elbow can vary in intensity and may develop gradually. Common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness

Usually located on the outer part of the elbow and may extend into the forearm and wrist.

Weakness

Difficulty in gripping objects or performing simple tasks like turning a doorknob or holding a coffee cup.

Stiffness

Limited range of motion in the elbow and forearm.

Swelling

Mild swelling around the affected area.

If you experience persistent pain and difficulty in performing daily tasks, it may be time to seek professional help.

Best Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

If home remedies do not provide sufficient relief, Evolve Medical Group offers a range of effective treatments for tennis elbow:

Physical Therapy

Our experienced physical therapists will design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around your elbow, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation may also be used to enhance recovery.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses shock waves to stimulate healing in the affected tendons. This therapy can promote tissue regeneration and reduce pain in chronic cases of tennis elbow.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own platelets into the affected area. The growth factors in the platelets can accelerate the healing process and reduce inflammation.

Corticosteroid Injections

For severe pain, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation. However, this treatment is typically used as a last resort due to potential side effects with long-term use.

Surgery

In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Our skilled surgeons can perform procedures to remove damaged tissue and promote healing.

What Should I Try at Home Before Seeing a Provider for Tennis Elbow?

Before consulting a healthcare provider, there are several home remedies and self-care strategies you can try to alleviate the symptoms of tennis elbow:

Rest

Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Give your elbow time to heal by resting it.

Ice

Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation and pain.

Compression

Use an elbow brace or strap to support the affected tendons and reduce strain.

Elevation

Keep your elbow elevated to reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter pain relievers

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.

Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

Perform exercises that target the forearm muscles to improve flexibility and strength.

Our Process for Treating Tennis Elbow

At Evolve Medical Group, we adopt a holistic approach to treat tennis elbow, ensuring that our clients receive personalized and effective care:

Comprehensive Evaluation

• Our specialists will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the severity of your condition and identify the underlying causes.

Customized Treatment Plan

• Based on the evaluation, we will create a tailored treatment plan that may include a combination of physical therapy, advanced therapies, and lifestyle modifications.

Ongoing Support

• Our supportive staff will provide continuous guidance and support throughout your treatment journey, ensuring that you achieve optimal results.

Holistic Wellness

• We incorporate wellness treatments such as cryotherapy, massage, and infrared saunas to enhance your overall wellbeing and support the healing process.

At Evolve Medical Group, we are committed to helping you regain your strength and live pain-free. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of tennis elbow, we strive to provide comprehensive care that promotes long-term health and wellness.

For more information on our services and to explore other wellness and aesthetic treatments, explore our website or contact us and discover how we can help you achieve your health and beauty goals.

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How Evolve evaluates it

Your visit starts with your story: which hand you use most, what your work and hobbies involve, when the pain began and what you’ve tried. Your provider goes over your health history and goals, then examines the elbow, checking tender spots and which wrist and finger movements bring on pain.

Outer elbow pain can sometimes come from the neck or a pinched nerve in the forearm, so your provider may check those too. Imaging may be recommended when needed. Your provider then explains the findings and, if appropriate, suggests a personalized plan with follow-up.