Elbow
Lateral Epicondylitis - Tennis Elbow Medial Epicondylitis - Golfer’s Elbow
Lateral Epicondylitis - Tennis Elbow
Description: This condition describes pain that is located on the outside of the elbow. The term “tennis elbow” is used to describe the pain because it is commonly associated with hitting a tennis back-hand. In addition, lateral epicondylitis is often seen in workers who perform repetitive activities with the lower arm, wrists, and hands. Current research suggests that when the condition has been present for many weeks or months, there is no actual inflammation. Instead, it is thought that the tendons of the forearm and elbow actually become more brittle, leading to pain and decreased strength in the associated muscles. Microtears form in the tendons, and for some reason the body is unable to heal the damaged tissues.
Symptoms: Extending the elbow, wrist, and middle finger is often very painful when this condition is present. Forceful twisting of the forearm, such as when turning a doorknob, can also reproduce symptoms. Pain may be localized to the outside of the elbow over the bony ridge of the humerus, but can also be present in the top of the forearm.
Treatment: Corticosteriod injections into the involved tendons is a commonly prescribed treatment. These injections can provide short-term pain relief, but pain often returns. In one research study, patients who received injections were compared with patients who participated in physical therapy. The study found that one year after treatment, 91% of patients in the physical therapy group had a positive outcome, compared to only 69% in the injection-only group. Physical therapy treatment for tennis elbow often consists of ultrasound, massage, stretching, and exercise. Exploring work or leisure activities which may contribute to symptoms is also very important, with activity modification to allow the injured tissues time to heal.
Medial Epicondylitis - Golfer’s Elbow
Description: This condition describes pain that is located on the inside of the elbow. The term “golfer’s elbow” is used to describe the pain because it is commonly associated with activities which place stress on the inside of the elbow, such as hitting a golf ball. In addition, medial epicondylitis is often seen in workers who perform repetitive activities with the lower arm, wrists, and hands. Current research suggests that when the condition has been present for many weeks or months, there is no actual inflammation. Instead, it is thought that the tendons of the forearm and elbow actually become more brittle, leading to pain and decreased strength in the associated muscles. Microtears form in the tendons, and for some reason the body is unable to heal the damaged tissues.
Symptoms: Flexing the elbow and wrist is often very painful when this condition is present. Activities which require forceful twisting of the forearm, such as hitting a fore-hand in tennis or swinging a golf club, can also cause pain. Pain may be localized to the inside of the elbow over the bony ridge of the humerus, but can also be present along the inner forearm near the elbow.
Treatment: Physical therapy treatment for golfer’s elbow often consists of ultrasound, massage, stretching, and exercises. Exploring work or leisure activities which may contribute to symptoms is also very important, with activity modification to allow the injured tissues time to heal.