Introduction

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort on the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow doesn’t only affect tennis players; it can impact anyone who engages in repetitive arm movements. If left untreated, it can significantly impact daily activities, making even simple tasks like lifting a cup of coffee painful. Dr. Siddharth Jain, a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in arthroscopy and sports injuries at Nagpur Arthroscopy & Sports Injury Centre, provides expert care for those suffering from tennis elbow, helping them regain their strength and return to normal activities.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by inflammation or microtears in the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. This typically occurs due to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Although it is commonly associated with racquet sports like tennis, it can also result from various activities that involve repetitive wrist and arm movements, such as painting, typing, or using tools.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow usually develops gradually, with symptoms worsening over time. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Burning or Pain on the Outer Elbow

• Patients often experience a burning sensation or sharp pain on the outside of the elbow. This pain may initially be mild but can become more intense, especially when lifting or gripping objects.

Stiffness or Pain

• Stiffness in the elbow joint, particularly in the morning, is a common symptom. The pain may also extend down the forearm, making it difficult to perform activities that require hand and wrist movements.

Swollen Elbow Joint

• In some cases, the elbow joint may become swollen and tender to the touch. This can further restrict movement and exacerbate pain.

Weakened Grip

• A noticeable decrease in grip strength is a hallmark of tennis elbow. Patients often struggle to hold or lift objects, and activities that involve gripping, such as shaking hands, can be particularly painful.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice early. Dr. Siddharth Jain can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailor a treatment plan to alleviate your pain and restore your elbow function.

Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow

Diagnosing tennis elbow typically involves a physical examination where Dr. Jain will assess the range of motion in your elbow, wrist, and forearm. He may apply pressure to the affected area or ask you to perform specific movements to determine the severity of the condition. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be recommended to rule out other conditions or assess the extent of tendon damage.

Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow can be managed effectively through a combination of conservative treatments and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Dr. Siddharth Jain offers a range of treatment options, tailored to the severity of your condition and your lifestyle needs.

Rest and Activity Modification

• The first step in treating tennis elbow is often resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain. Modifying your movements or taking breaks during repetitive tasks can prevent further damage and allow the tendons to heal.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is a cornerstone of tennis elbow treatment. Dr. Siddharth Jain may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce strain on the tendons and promote healing.

Medications

• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, Dr. Siddharth Jain may prescribe stronger medications or recommend corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and swelling.

Bracing

• Wearing a brace or a strap over the forearm can reduce strain on the tendons, providing relief from pain. Dr. Siddharth Jain can guide you on the proper use of these supports and how long you should wear them.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

• ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy shock waves to stimulate healing in the affected tendons. This therapy can be particularly effective for patients who do not respond to more conservative treatments.

Surgery

• If non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief after several months, surgical intervention may be necessary. Dr. Siddharth Jain is highly skilled in performing arthroscopic surgery to remove damaged tendon tissue, which can help alleviate pain and restore function. Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive, meaning it involves small incisions, less pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Siddharth Jain?

Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome for your condition. Dr. Siddharth Jain is a leading expert in arthroscopy and sports injuries, with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating tennis elbow. At Nagpur Arthroscopy & Sports Injury Centre, he combines advanced surgical techniques with a patient-centered approach, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care.

Dr. Siddharth Jain’s dedication to using the latest medical advancements, coupled with his compassionate approach, makes him the go-to specialist for patients suffering from tennis elbow. Whether you require conservative management or surgical intervention, Dr. Siddharth Jain will work with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Preventing Tennis Elbow

Preventing tennis elbow involves taking proactive steps to reduce the strain on your elbow tendons. Here are some tips to help you avoid developing this painful condition:

Strengthen Your Forearm Muscles

• Regularly performing exercises that target the forearm muscles can help build strength and reduce the risk of injury. Dr. Siddharth Jain can recommend specific exercises to incorporate into your routine.

Use Proper Technique

• Whether you’re playing sports or performing repetitive tasks at work, using the correct technique can significantly reduce strain on your tendons. Dr. Siddharth Jain can provide guidance on proper form and movement patterns to minimize the risk of tennis elbow.

Take Breaks

• Avoid prolonged periods of repetitive motion by taking frequent breaks. This gives your muscles and tendons time to rest and recover, reducing the likelihood of developing tennis elbow.

Use Ergonomic Tools

• If your work involves repetitive tasks, consider using tools that are ergonomically designed to reduce strain on your arm and wrist. Properly designed tools can make a significant difference in preventing overuse injuries.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow is a common but treatable condition that can significantly impact your quality of life if left unaddressed. With the expertise of Dr. Siddharth Jain at Nagpur Arthroscopy & Sports Injury Centre, you can find relief from pain and regain the full function of your elbow. Whether through conservative treatment or surgical intervention, Dr. Siddharth Jain is committed to providing the highest standard of care to help you return to your daily activities without pain.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Dr. Siddharth Jain at +91-8300679791 or visit www.siddharthjainorthopaedic.com to schedule your appointment today.