Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons and muscle surrounding the elbow. Overuse of certain arm or elbow movements, such as those that occur while playing tennis, can lead to pain around the outside of the elbow, although tennis is not the only activity that can lead to tennis elbow. Painters, plumbers, carpenters, and other professionals who must constantly repeat certain arm movements during the day are also more prone to develop tennis elbow.
The doctors at California Orthopedics & Spine are experts at diagnosing and correcting joint injuries, including tennis elbow. If you live in the larger San Francisco Bay Area, and you are experiencing pain or a burning sensation around your elbow, we can help diagnose and treat your condition.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow
When tennis elbow develops, your doctor will perform a full evaluation to determine the extent and cause of your condition. Roughly 90% of patients react well to nonsurgical treatments such as the following:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAIDs)
- Resting and stopping activities that aggravate the elbow for a few weeks
- Changing equipment (some racquets can reduce the stress on your elbow)
- Stretches and exercises
- Use of a forearm brace
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
If these treatment options are not helpful for your condition, our specialists may consider surgery. Surgery is a last resort, and minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopic surgery can sometimes be used. Surgery for tennis elbow is almost always an outpatient procedure, which means patients will be able to return home once the procedure is finished. Physical therapy will likely be necessary after surgery to ensure you can return to full function. Alternative methods of controlling pain, such as acupuncture, may also be prescribed, depending on your situation. Your preferences and goals will be considered when planning your treatment at California Orthopedics & Spine.
Treatment for Tennis Elbow in Marin County, CA
California Orthopedics & Spine offers diagnosis and treatment for tennis elbow. Our sports medicine specialists and orthopedists will be happy to help you get back on the court, back to work, or simply back to feeling your best so that you can live your most active lifestyle. Give us a call for more information or to schedule an appointment today.