TENNIS ELBOW

TENNIS ELBOW

• Also known as lateral epicondylitis.
• Occurs due to repetitive stretch of the common extensor origin at the lateral epicondyle.
• Common in tennis players.
• Symptoms are observed especially during a back hand  stroke.
• Also common in manual laborers, e.g. plumbers, gardeners, etc.

Pathology:

• Repetitive stretch causes microtears resulting in inflammation, degeneration and fibrosis of the common extensor origin there by making it less elastic.
• Extensor carpi radialis brevis is commonly affected.

Clinical Features:

• Pain and discomfort in the region of common extensor origin, especially while lifting heavy objects.
• Tenderness over the same area.

Test:

• Diagnosed by a specific test known as Cozen’s test.

Treatment:

1. Avoid repetitive stretch
2. Wearing supportive splints and straps for tennis elbow 

1. Ice packs for acute episode and heat therapy for chronic.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs.
3. Corticosteroid injections.
4. Exercise therapy and occupation therapy.
5. Surgery in refractory cases (Rarely done).

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