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Understanding Elbow Tendonitis

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Orthopedic doctor examining patient's elbow concerned with elbow tendonitis.

Elbow tendonitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the elbow tendons that affects individuals involved in repetitive arm movements. There are two primary types: tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), each with distinct symptoms and causes. Tennis elbow is a condition that affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects those on the inner side. Both conditions share similar symptoms and causes, typically resulting from overuse of the arm.

Symptoms and Causes of Elbow Tendonitis

Symptoms:

  • Pain and tenderness around the elbow
  • Weakness in the forearm
  • Stiffness in the elbow joint
  • Difficulty in gripping or lifting objects

Common Causes:

  • Repetitive gripping and striking motions (e.g., tennis, golf, baseball, hammering)
  • Constant, forceful gripping (e.g., weightlifting, manual labor)

Athletes in sports such as tennis, golf, and baseball are particularly prone to elbow tendonitis. However, it also affects individuals involved in activities that require repetitive arm movements, including gymnasts, weightlifters, and manual laborers.

Diagnosing Elbow Tendonitis

The diagnosis of elbow tendonitis will typiclaly involve a thorough medical history review as well as a physical examination by a specialist.

If necessary, diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or nerve conduction studies, may be employed to confirm the condition.

Treating Elbow Tendonitis

At-Home Treatments

For those experiencing the initial symptoms of elbow tendonitis, several at-home treatments can help manage the condition:

Rest

Avoid activities that aggravate the symptoms to allow the tendons to heal.

Ice

To reduce inflammation and pain, apply ice (wrapped in a towel to protect your skin) to the affected area for 20 minutes, 3-4 times a day.

Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen can help manage pain and swelling.

Bracing

A compression brace or band can support the elbow, reduce strain on the tendons, and promote healing.

When to See a Doctor for Elbow Tendonitis

If home treatments do not alleviate your elbow tendonitis symptoms or if the pain and weakness persist, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Orthopedic specialists at OIBO provide customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. These plans focus on reducing inflammation and pain while preventing future occurrences of elbow tendonitis.

An OIBO orthopedic specialist can provide a more comprehensive treatment plan, which may include:

Physical Therapy

A therapist can guide you through exercises that will help strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. You will receive exercises designed to decrease symptoms and prevent recurrence; this reduces the risk of future injuries.

Medications

Prescription-strength oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications can more effectively manage severe pain and inflammation.

Injections

Steroid and anesthetic injections directly into the affected tendons can significantly relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended to promote healing.

Bracing

Wearing a removable brace is recommended to alleviate pressure on the affected tendons. It can immobilize the elbow, allowing the tendons to rest and recover.

Preventing Elbow Tendonitis

Preventing elbow tendonitis involves taking several precautions, especially for individuals at high risk:

  • Proper Technique: Ensure the correct technique is used in sports and other activities to avoid unnecessary strain on the elbow.
  • Strengthening Exercises: You can regularly perform exercises that strengthen your forearm muscles to support the elbow.
  • Ergonomic Adjustments: Make ergonomic adjustments in the workplace to reduce repetitive strain on the arm and elbow.
  • Stretching: By incorporating stretching exercises into your routine, you can maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please seek care promptly.

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Tennis Elbow vs Golfer’s Elbow

Differentiating between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow is important for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Both conditions stem from overuse but affect different parts of the elbow and involve different types of movements.

Tennis Elbow Tendonitis (Lateral Epicondylitis)

tennis elbow tendonitis

Location

Elbow tendonitis, known as tennis elbow, affects the tendons on the outside (lateral side) of the elbow.

Tennis Elbow Symptoms

  • Pain and tenderness on the outer part of your elbow.
  • Weakness in your forearm.
  • Difficulty in gripping objects, shaking hands, or turning doorknobs.
  • Pain may radiate down the forearm.

Causes of Tennis Elbow

  • Overuse and repetitive motions that strain the forearm muscles and tendons.
  • Common in activities such as tennis, pickleball, other racquet sports, and tasks involving repetitive wrist and arm motions (e.g., painting, plumbing, carpentry).

Mechanism of Injury

  • Gripping and striking an object (e.g., tennis racket).
  • Forceful wrist and arm motions, especially with improper technique.

Diagnosing Tennis Elbow

  • A physical examination to check for tenderness on the lateral epicondyle.
  • Medical history review focusing on activities causing symptoms.

Treating Tennis Elbow

  • Rest and ice.
  • NSAIDs (oral and topical).
  • Physical therapy.
  • Bracing.
  • Injections (steroid, anesthetic, or platelet-rich plasma).

Golfer’s Elbow Tendonitis (Medial Epicondylitis)

golfers elbow tendonitis

Location

Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside (medial side) of the elbow.

Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms

  • Pain and tenderness on the inner part of your elbow.
  • Weakness in your wrist and forearm.
  • Difficulty in flexing the wrist or gripping objects.
  • Your pain may radiate down your forearm to your wrist.

Causes of Golfer’s Elbow

  • Overuse and repetitive motions that strain the forearm muscles and tendons.
  • Common in activities such as golf, throwing sports, and tasks involving repetitive wrist and arm motions (e.g., hammering, typing).

Mechanism of Injury

  • Repeated wrist flexion and forearm pronation (turning the forearm inward).
  • Forceful gripping and lifting motions.

Diagnosing Golfer’s Elbow

  • Physical examination to check for tenderness on the medial epicondyle.
  • Medical history review focusing on activities causing symptoms.

Treating Golfer’s Elbow

  • Rest and ice.
  • NSAIDs (oral and topical).
  • Physical therapy.
  • Bracing.
  • Injections (steroid, anesthetic, or platelet-rich plasma).

Both conditions result from overuse and can significantly impact daily activities and sports performance. Effective management and preventive measures can help players minimize the risk of either form of elbow tendonitis and maintain their activity levels.

At OIBO, we have a team of specialists dedicated to helping you with your pain. Contact us to schedule an appointment; we can’t wait to help you.

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Elbow tendonitis, whether tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, can be painful. Understanding the symptoms and causes and early and appropriate treatment can help manage the condition effectively. Consulting with an orthopedic specialist ensures comprehensive care and a quicker recovery for persistent or severe cases. By taking preventive measures and following a tailored treatment plan, you can minimize the impact of elbow tendonitis on your daily life.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for information purposes only and is not medical advice or diagnosis. Please contact us with questions or to schedule with one of our orthopaedic specialists.

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We listen. We collaborate. We Serve.

Compassionate Orthopaedic Care In New Jersey

Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.

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