Tennis Elbow is a fairly common term to the average person, but
what exactly is it and can you only get it if you play
tennis? In the sports medicine world, the technical name for
"tennis elbow" is lateral epicondylitis. This injury affects
the forearm muscles near the outside (lateral) part of the elbow
joint resulting in pain, weakness, and swelling. Typically,
individuals suffering from tennis elbow have difficulty with
gripping activities and have tenderness near the bony bump on the
outside of the elbow.
Tennis players do tend to have lateral epicondylitis more than
others due to increased stress on the forearm muscles usually
attributed to improper swing mechanics. However, anyone can
incur this injury, especially those with occupations requiring
continuous use of the forearm muscles.
The best treatment for lateral epicondylitis is
prevention. It is important to use correct posture during
job-related activities. For tennis players, one must remember
a powerful tennis swing is not generated by the speed of your arm,
rather it is produced through the use and control of the larger
muscles of the legs and trunk. Learning correct body
mechanics of the tennis swing will not only help to prevent this
injury, but improve your game as well.
If symptoms of lateral epicondylitis do arise, it is recommended
that you rest and apply ice to the irritated area. Begin
stretching exercises for the forearm muscles as soon as can be
tolerated. Light strengthening exercises can be performed
when stretching becomes nearly painless. You don't need
dumbbells to do these exercises; holding a soup can or hammer in
your hand will work just fine. If symptoms persist, you
should visit your physician who can prescribe anti-inflammatory
medication and physical therapy.