Tennis elbow is a painful condition that occurs when the tendon that connects the muscles of the elbow to the bones of the forearm becomes inflamed. Although this condition is more common in tennis players, it can also be caused by other activities that repeatedly put stress on the elbow joint.
Causes
- Overuse: Repetitive motions, such as tennis, golf, plumbing, and other activities that require repeated flexion and extension of the elbow joint, can cause tennis elbow.
- Improper technique: Improper sports technique or work style can increase the strain on the elbow joint.
- Muscle weakness: Weakness in the elbow muscles can increase the strain on the tendon.
- Sudden trauma: In rare cases, tennis elbow can be caused by a sudden trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched hand.
Solutions
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
- Ice packs: Apply ice packs to the painful area several times a day.
- Painkillers: Take over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
- Orthoses: Elbow orthoses can help support the tendon and reduce pressure on it. View orthoses for tennis elbow treatment
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises that strengthen the elbow muscles and improve the mobility of the joint.
- Corticosteroid injections: These injections can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgical intervention: In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
How to prevent tennis elbow
- Proper technique: Ensure that you are performing sports movements or work tasks correctly.
- Rest and Stretch: After physical activity, make sure you get enough rest and stretch.
- Warm-up and cool-down: Do warm-up and cool-down exercises before and after activities.
- Sports Compression: Use sports compression for your arms. It reduces muscle vibrations that can cause microtrauma and inflammation. Provides muscle support and improves blood circulation. View sports compression for arms
- Ergonomic work environment: Ensure that your workplace is ergonomically correct to reduce strain on the elbow joint.
Important: If you suffer from tennis elbow, be sure to consult a doctor or physiotherapist to receive appropriate treatment and prevent further deterioration.