Tennis Elbow Specialist

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically referred to as lateral epicondylitis, refers to a specific type of tendinitis that affects the outside of your elbow. Though playing a few too many rounds of tennis can lead to the pain and inflammation of the connective tissue, the condition more commonly develops from trauma, stress, or overuse. 

You may be at risk of developing the pain condition if  you perform repetitive movements of your elbow, such as the up and down motion required for painting or weight lifting. 

What are tennis elbow symptoms?

With tennis elbow, you’re likely to experience pain on the outside of your elbow. The condition may also cause weakness that makes it difficult for you to turn a doorknob or hold a coffee cup.

It’s possible to care for your tennis elbow at home with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication, but if your symptoms aren’t improving or they’re keeping you from your daily responsibilities, the experienced team at Central Jersey Hand Surgery can help. 

How is tennis elbow diagnosed?

The specialists at Central Jersey Hand Surgery can usually diagnose tennis elbow based on your reported symptoms and an examination of your elbow. However, to rule out other causes of your discomfort, X-rays or MRI may be requested. 

What are the treatments for tennis elbow?

Central Jersey Hand Surgery takes a conservative approach to tennis elbow to support your body’s natural ability to heal the inflammation. Your treatment plan may include:

• Rest
• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Splint
• Tennis elbow support

Your specialist may also recommend physical therapy, especially if your tennis elbow developed due to repetitive use. Your therapist can teach you techniques to reduce stress on your elbow and the supporting tendons to prevent a recurrence of the inflammation. 

In some cases, a cortisone injection may also be recommended to help reduce inflammation. The experienced team may also suggest platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which is a form of regenerative medicine that supports healing of the damaged and inflamed tissue.

Tennis elbow rarely requires surgery. However, if your pain persists despite conservative treatments, your doctor may suggest surgical removal of the inflamed tissue, which is an outpatient procedure.

For comprehensive care of your tennis elbow, call Central Jersey Hand Surgery or request an appointment online today.