Pathology

"Tennis Elbow" (Lateral Epicondylitis) is a lesion in the tendons of the forearm extensor muscles.

Repeated activity such as hitting a ball with a racket causes microtrauma to the tendon and the formation of scar tissue which leads to inflammation. This leads to tenderness and pain on the outside of the elbow.

Signs and Symptoms

- Pain on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle).

- Weak grip strength.

- Pain on resisted extension or stretching of the extensor muscle group.

- Tight extensors.

Possible Causes

- Weak extensor muscles.

- Overuse (work-related, sport or activity-related).

- Trauma or damage.

- Too much too soon (excessive load or volume).

Treatment

Tennis elbow can be treated with massage, stretching and physio exercises.

It's also important to give the area time to heal, and for the inflammation to reduce. Therefore reducing load and volume through the elbow and forearm is recommended. Appropriate icing and heating techniques can also be applied under the guidance of a therapist.

At Thrive Therapy & Fitness, we have treated several cases of tennis elbow.

If you are currently struggling we would love to help you!