Shoulder & Elbow :. tennis elbow

OVERVIEW

This condition is the result of damage to the tendons that bend the wrist back. Although it is often referred to as tennis elbow, lateral epicondlitis can be caused by any reptitious use of these muscles.

INSIDE THE ELBOW

The muscles that pull the wrist back are called extensor muscles. These muscles join together and attach to a single tendon at the elbow. This tendon, called the common extensor tendon, attaches to the lateral epicondyle.

CAUSE OF DAMAGE

As you use these muscles for activities such as swinging a backhand shot in tennis, the muscles contract and pull against the tendons. When these muscles and tendons are overused, the tendons can become inflamed.

SYMPTOMS

Common symptoms include tenderness and pain at the lateral epicondyle that can be made worse by bending the wrist.

TREATMENT

Treatment may be determined by your physician and may include rest, application of ice, anti-inflammatory medication, cross-friction massage, strengthening exercise and, in rare cases, surgery.