TENNIS ELBOW

Commonly known as ‘tennis elbow’ extensor tendinopathy refers to the degeneration and inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow.

These extensor tendons connect the muscles of the forearm to the elbow and are subjected to high loads with activities involving gripping and lifting. Repetitive use of the forearm muscles during sport or with manual work can result in excessive loading to these tendons. In turn microscopic tearing can occur within the tendons causing pain and leaving them weak and vulnerable to further damage. If the repetitive loading continues further microscopic tearing occurs and the tendons enter a degenerative state.

Symptoms

Extensor tendinopathy usually results in pain felt on the outside of the elbow and forearm. Typically the pain develops gradually and is often ignored initially because it is only present for short periods with certain activities. It tends to be associated with activities involving gripping or resisted wrist extension (eg. laying bricks, using screwdriver, knitting, typing). Unfortunately though as the degeneration process accelerates pain becomes more persistent, weakness can develop, and normal function is eventually impaired.

Management

Extensor tendinopathy generally does not get better on its own if the causes are not addressed. Basic management usually includes activity modification, icing and stretching. It is always best to seek the assistance of a sports medicine professional. They will help to identify the cause of injury, provide appropriate treatment, and guidance with rehabilitation to increase the likelihood of making a full recovery and reduce the risk of future re-aggravation. Physiotherapy techniques involving soft tissue therapy, electrotherapy and specialised re-strengthening programs have been shown in scientific studies to produce the best long-term results.

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