Tennis elbow, elbow pain, pain treatment, Belgrade, Serbia.

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. This pain usually occurs due to overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm and around the elbow joint. Although the name "tennis elbow" is often associated with sports, the condition can affect anyone who frequently uses the muscles of the forearm, such as painters, plumbers and carpenters.

The primary symptoms of lateral epicondylitis include pain in the area of the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. This part of the elbow is a pyramid-shaped bump from which tendons and ligaments essential for hand and finger movements originate.

The pain may spread from the outside of the elbow towards the forearm and wrist. This pain, along with weakness, can make everyday activities like shaking hands, opening doors, or holding a cup difficult.

Initially, the symptoms are usually mild, but if left untreated, the pain can become more intense and significantly impair quality of life. In some cases, the symptoms may arise suddenly, often due to a specific movement or increased physical activity.

A characteristic symptom is a decrease in hand strength; people often complain of severe pain when lifting even very light objects, such as a cup of tea, and experience pain when turning a key in a lock, which can become nearly impossible.

The symptoms of tennis elbow often resemble those of radial tunnel syndrome but differ in the exact location of the pain.

Some of the symptoms you may notice if you're suffering from tennis elbow include:

Pain on the outside of the forearm, below the elbow joint

Pain that occurs when bending or lifting the arm (it may be present only during certain activities or constantly)

Tenderness to the touch in the elbow area

Difficulty or pain when straightening the forearm

Restricted elbow movement, possibly accompanied by swelling

If home remedies such as rest, cold compresses, and OTC medications do not provide relief, it is recommended to see a doctor. Do not ignore these symptoms, as proper treatment can significantly improve your condition and quality of life.

• Repetitive movements
• Improper technique or posture
• Overuse of muscles
• Lack of flexibility and strength

The most common cause of tennis elbow is the repetition of the same movements over an extended period. Activities such as playing tennis, working on a computer, or performing physical labor can lead to overuse of the tendons and muscles in the forearm. These repetitive strains cause micro-injuries and inflammation, which can result in pain and discomfort in the elbow area.

Here’s a more detailed overview of some of the most common causes:

Repetitive movements: Activities that involve repeating the same motions, such as playing tennis, working on a computer, or doing physical labor, can trigger this condition. Each time these motions are repeated, the tendons and muscles in the forearm become overworked, which can lead to micro-injuries and inflammation.

Improper technique or posture: Poor technique when performing certain activities can significantly contribute to the development of tennis elbow.

Overuse of muscles: Prolonged and intense use of the forearm muscles can cause tension and pain in the tendons.

Lack of flexibility and strength: Weakness or lack of flexibility in the forearm muscles can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.

Postural issues: Problems with body posture and alignment can lead to uneven strain on the forearm muscles and tendons.

Understanding these causes can help you take appropriate measures to prevent the onset of tennis elbow. If symptoms occur, proper rest, correcting technique, and possibly consulting a specialist can be key to successful treatment and preventing further problems.

Treatment of tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, typically involves a range of approaches aimed at reducing symptoms, improving function, and preventing further issues. Here’s a detailed overview of the methods used in treating this condition:

Rest: Rest is crucial, and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms helps the tendons and muscles recover.

Cold and heat therapy: Cold compresses can reduce swelling and pain, while heat can help relax muscles after the initial inflammation.

Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, can reduce inflammation and pain. Take them as recommended.

Physical therapy exercises: Exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility can aid in recovery.

Ergonomic adjustments: Adjusting your technique and using ergonomic tools can help reduce stress on the elbow.

Braces or splints: Wearing braces can help reduce strain on the affected area.

Additional medical treatments: In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or physical therapy may be recommended. If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary.

Each case is unique, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized treatment plan. The proper combination of these methods can significantly improve your condition and allow you to return to normal activities.