Intro: Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common cause of elbow pain occurring at the lateral epicondyle, a bony protuberance at the end of the arm bone (humerus). This condition stems from overuse of the forearm extensor muscles resulting in inflammation of the common extensor tendon originating from the lateral epicondyle.
Symptoms: Tenderness on palpation of the elbow and pain with extension of the wrist.
Treatment: Physical therapy, medication, and ice. A tennis/golfer’s elbow brace worn two finger width distal to the outer bony edge of elbow during activity use may help as well. A steroid injection can provide relief. Regenerative treatment such as plasma rich platelet (PRP) injection, which promotes healing of the tendon, is another treatment modality for this condition. Surgeries such as arthroscopic tenotomy (cutting tendon) may be considered in refractory cases.
Tennis/Golfer Elbow Brace
Short term use of tennis elbow/golfer elbow brace helps support and translate tension off the epicondyle where the common extensor or flexor tendon originates. It is worn two finger width distal to the outer or inner edges of the elbow. The cushion is applied to the side of pain. This device can be worn on activity use. Long term or constant use of the brace is discouraged.
