Tennis Elbow Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Tennis Elbow Overview Tennis elbow is a condition in which the tendons attached to the outer part of the elbow are inflamed. It is also known as lateral epicondylitis because the inflamed tendons are attached to the lateral epicondyle. Risk factors Although the cause for this condition is unclear, risk factors include:Repeated elbow overuse and movements, such as those during screwing, typing, or knitting.History of diabetes, thyroid disorders, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms Pain on the outer aspect of the elbow, especially while doing activities like twisting and lifting heavy weights.Sometimes the patients present with radiating pain down to the forearm, wrist, or weakness. Diagnosis Physical examination through tests, such as Cozen’s test.X-rays to rule out fractures, bony spurs, or even calcifications.Ultrasonography to assess the integrity of the extensor origin muscles (present on the outer part of the bone).Magnetic resonance imaging for additional information. Treatment Non-surgical treatmentLifestyle modifications, including avoiding activities like lifting heavy weights and twisting movements at the elbow.Specific sports injury treatmentApplying ice packs on the affected area to reduce the inflammation (swelling) and pain to a larger extent.Splints and strapping using commercially available braces help reduce the strain on the extensor compartment muscles and promote the healing process. The use of straps, especially while playing sports, can reduce pain.Stretching and strengthening exercises to strengthen the whole muscle-tendon unit, including the elbow and wrist joints.Local injections (such as steroids) and platelet-rich plasma can alleviate the pain and promote regeneration at the tendon site.Surgical treatmentSurgery:Mini-open surgery: This involves making a 3–4 cm incision over the outer aspect of the elbow joint and excising the unhealthy tissue, followed by repairing the tendons (most commonly Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis).Arthroscopy: This is a new modality that helps in addressing the pathology with 2–3 small incisions releasing the pressure on the tendons and excising the unhealthy tissue.After surgery:Wound care for 2 weeks and maintaining the arm in a sling.Based on the type of repair/release done, the rehabilitation usually starts 2 weeks after surgery.Complete recovery is expected by the end of 2–3 months.