Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a term used to describe soreness or pain felt on the outside (lateral) part of the elbow, especially when the palm is turned up.
Symptoms occur when there is tendon damage (tendinopathy) or strained where the muscles of the forearm, wrist, and hand connect to the upper arm bone (humerus) at the elbow. These muscles are used to rotate the forearm and flex the wrist and fingers backward.
Tennis elbow is usually caused by overuse from repeated hand and wrist movements that occur during many extensive activities every day, such as using a computer, a screwdriver, or during sports activities such as tennis or golf. A direct blow can also cause it.
Treatment for tennis elbow includes:
1. Avoid repetitive motion and lifting of extra weight
2. Resting the arm to allow the tendon to heal,
3. Taking steps to reduce pain and inflammation initially by UltraSound and then by applying a cold pack three times a day 15 to 20 minutes each time,
4. Wear appropriate brace/strap and
5. Do not rest your head on the fore arm while sleeping at night
6. Strengthening and stretching the forearm muscles to help recovery and prevent further injury. In worst-case situation, a person may need to change or stop activities that aggravate the condition. Surgery is rarely needed.