What is Tennis Elbow?

The elbow tendons join the muscles and bones together, they also control the muscles in the forearm. Tennis elbow is inflammation of the tendons and muscles, near the elbow, and is known as lateral epicondylitis. It is not necessarily caused by playing tennis, any form a strenuous use can cause it. Figures given by the NHS indicates one in every three people can be suffering from the condition at any one time. It is more common in 40 to 60 year olds, and it can affect as many men as women. Pain will be felt below the elbow bend, just outside the upper forearm. Pain felt on the inner aspect of the elbow is very often known as golfers elbow.

The symptoms of tennis elbow can include pain around the affect area, and made worse when squeezing objects, such as opening jars, using a knife, and shaking hands. Participating in certain sports can increase the likelihood of developing tennis elbow, however work activities can also play a part. Typing is known to increase the chance of suffering with the condition, as is gardening, knitting, and playing video games.

Diagnose can very often take place through examination and description of the pain. Further investigations may be required.

The aim of any treatment is to reduce the pain and improve the mobility of the arm. This can be achieved with the aid of exercise. Elbow bends and wrist turns preformed in repetitions of 10 each exercise will encourage controlled movements. Wrist flex and wrist lifts using a light weight in each hand will help to strengthen the arm muscles.

It can be difficult to prevent tennis elbow, however if you play a sport that involves repetitive movements ensure you warm up first. Equally important is to ensure you cool down afterwards. It helps to also spread the load to any larger muscle groups. Any work activity that involves repetitive movements why not treat it as preparation for a sport activity and warm up at the start and cool down at the end.

CONTENT SOURCES: Health and Fitness Advice by FitFarms Editorial Team

Image Credit: PeakHealthCalgary.com