Tennis Elbow
Also known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition causes pain at the outside of the elbow, which interferes with grip and lifting. Often the symptoms are worse with the forearm rotated such that the palm faces down, and relieved when the palm faces up.
The condition is caused by degeneration of the tendons, which extend the wrist and fingers where the muscles attach to the bone at the elbow.
Non-operative treatment is the mainstay of tennis elbow management, consisting of stretches and activity modification. A band around the proximal forearm (tennis elbow strap) can help control the pain. Usually the pain resolves within 12 to 18 months on its own. A cortisone shot can be used to help lessen the symptoms during this period. Sometimes surgery is required to excise the degenerative tissue and to allow a fresh healing process to take place.
