Are you experiencing persistent pain in the outer part of your elbow? You might be dealing with tennis elbow, a common condition we treat at Tidewater Orthopaedics.

What is a Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that affects the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition isn't limited to tennis players—it can affect anyone who performs repetitive arm movements.

Common Causes of Tennis Elbow

1. Racquet sports (tennis, racquetball, squash)
2. Repetitive work activities (painting, plumbing, carpentry)
3. Weightlifting
4. Prolonged computer use or typing

Recognizing Tennis Elbow Symptoms

If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have tennis elbow:

- Pain on the outer part of the elbow
- Pain radiating down the forearm
- Weakness in the wrist or hand
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or bending the arm

Diagnosing Tennis Elbow

At Tidewater Orthopaedics, our specialists use a combination of physical examinations and imaging tests to accurately diagnose tennis elbow. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and faster recovery.

Tennis Elbow Treatment Options

Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Rest and activity modification
2. Ice or heat therapy
3. Anti-inflammatory medications
4. Physical therapy exercises
5. Bracing or strapping
6. Corticosteroid injections
7. Surgical intervention (for severe cases)

Preventing Tennis Elbow

Reduce your risk of developing tennis elbow with these preventive measures:

- Use proper technique in sports and work activities
- Strengthen your forearm muscles
- Use equipment appropriate for your size and strength
- Take regular breaks during repetitive activities
- Incorporate stretching before and after activities

When to Seek Professional Help

Suppose you're experiencing persistent elbow pain that doesn't improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments. In that case, it's time to consult an orthopaedic specialist. At Tidewater Orthopaedics, our team of experts is ready to provide personalized care and treatment for your tennis elbow.

Tennis elbow can be a challenging condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant improvement. Don't let elbow pain hold you back – contact Tidewater Orthopaedics today for expert care and start your journey to recovery.

Schedule an appointment with our tennis elbow specialists at Tidewater Orthopaedics. Call [phone number] or visit our website to book your consultation today.