Are you suddenly having trouble opening jars, gripping objects, or shaking hands? The culprit could be tennis elbow, a common overuse injury. Also known as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow occurs when tiny tears form in the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). In addition to a weakened grip, tennis elbow can cause pain and burning sensations as the forearm tendons become increasingly inflamed.

Most people associate tennis elbow with athletes who play racquet sports. However, it can actually affect anyone who performs tasks that involve repetitive forearm and wrist motions, such as typing, painting, gardening, hammering, and playing a musical instrument. So, whether you’re an avid tennis player or you’ve never swung a racquet in your life, you should have your tennis elbow symptoms evaluated by an orthopedic elbow specialist. You can receive prompt and attentive care at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed & Treated?

To determine whether tennis elbow is causing your symptoms, we will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and possibly order imaging studies. Once we confirm your diagnosis, we will suggest a treatment plan to help you manage your discomfort. Tennis elbow treatment usually begins conservatively with:

• Limited rest and activity modifications
• Bracing or splinting
• Ice pack applications
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy

If your tennis elbow symptoms do not improve after several weeks of nonsurgical treatment, we may suggest lateral epicondyle release surgery, which is designed to remove inflamed tendon tissue, scar tissue, and bone spurs. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic elbow surgeons often perform this procedure on an outpatient basis using minimally invasive techniques.

At Premier Bone & Joint Centers, you can explore your treatment options for tennis elbow with an experienced elbow specialist, who will help you overcome your pain and get back into the game. Contact us today to request an appointment at our satellite clinic in Cheyenne, WY.