Elbow
Tennis Elbow
Lateral epicondylitis, also known as
“tennis elbow,” is an overuse syndrome. There
is pain or inflammation on the outside of the forearm near
the elbow. The tendon, which connects muscle to bone, might
be partially torn at or near the place where it connects to
the bony bump on the outside of the elbow (called the lateral
epicondyle). Tennis elbow most commonly affects people in
their dominant arm, but it can occur in either or both arms.
Tennis elbow is caused by repeated motions of the wrist or
forearm. The injury is called "tennis elbow" because
of its common occurrence in the sport. The violent extension
of the wrist, like during a backhand hit, causes the condition.
However, any activity that involves repetitive twisting of
the wrist, like using a screwdriver, is also responsible.
Symptoms:
- Elbow pain that gradually worsens
- Weak grasp
-
While grasping or twisting, pain radiates from the outside
of the elbow to the forearm and back of the hand when grasping
or twisting
This condition, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a very
similar injury to tennis elbow, but on the inside of the elbow.
Due to overuse, the tendon tears near the region where it
connects to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow (called
the medial epicondyle). As with tennis elbow, a variety of
people experience this injury. Tennis players and others who
use their wrists or clench their fingers repeatedly can develop
this condition. It is caused by damage to the muscles and
tendons that control the wrist and fingers. The damage is
caused by repetitive or excess stress on the wrist and fingers.
Activities like golf, throwing sports (pitching), racket sports,
and simple things like typing, hammering, or painting can
lead to this injury.
Symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
- Pain radiating to the inner side of the forearm
- Stiffness in elbow
- Pain and difficulty in making a fist
- Weakness in hands and wrists
