Tennis Elbow Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

by Christopher Bertuccini, MPT, cert MDT

Location: Doctor's office

Patient: "So doctor you said I have what? Oh no!! Is it fatal??!!"

Doctor: "No, I said you have lateral epicondylitis . . . that is the cause of your elbow pain and is only fatal to your tennis game."

Lateral epicondylitis, better known as "tennis elbow" is a common impairment that affects many active people. It is an inflammation of the common extensor tendon (CET) where it attaches at the lateral epicondyle, and presents with outer elbow pain that becomes worse with gripping activities.

The bony part of the outer elbow (the condyle) can be very tender to touch and even swollen in some cases. This inflammation can be caused by a repetitive motion (i.e. tennis' backhand or painting), or it can be caused by poor prolonged positioning (i.e. bad ergonomics during extended periods of typing).

When caught and treated early, tennis elbow responds very well to anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, ice, and rest. When the pain is lingering, sometimes an injection, or in severe cases, surgery, is indicated.

If you suspect you may have tennis elbow, rest and ice are good starts to your recovery. The next step is to seek an evaluation by a licensed physical therapist after a discussion with your physician.

Please call STAR Physical Therapy in Mt. Laurel, Medford or Cherry Hill for an appointment within 24 hours.