This month we will be looking at the elbow joint, focusing on the “tennis elbow”. The Elbow joint consist of the Humerus, Radius and Ulnar.
Pain in this region comes as a result of over use of the wrist and forearm extensor muscles. Simple movements like writing, using an office mouse, or as the name suggest a backhand in tennis, if repeated can cause inflammation and irritation to the tendon that can cause it to swell. If the tendon is exposed to this irritation long enough it can cause scarring or deformity.
Even in extreme cases surgery intervention is rare. Rather conservative management with rest and physiotherapy have been shown to decrease symptoms and return function. The best course of action is always to remove the load that is causing the inflammation. Bracing around the forearm and stretching have been shown to assist with pain relief. As the pain subsides strengthening exercises can be added.
