More than 90% of people respond to conservative treatment. Very few people require surgery for tennis elbow.
Conservative or non-surgical treatment for tennis elbow involves:
- rest
- muscle stretches
- tennis elbow strap to reduce strain on the tendon
- physiotherapy to reduce pain and inflammation
- a steroid injection into the affected area
Although doctors have traditionally used ice and anti-inflammatory medications to treat this condition, newer information suggests that these treatments may not be useful. Ultrasound and laser treatments also seem to be of questionable benefit.
Your physician may recommend a steroid injection to relieve pain. The injection provides relief for up to 3 months and is seldom used more than 2 or 3 times per year.
Once pain has stopped or improved, physiotherapy exercises will stretch tightened muscles and strengthen the tendon and muscles in the forearm. Massage may also help.
Some chiropractic techniques, such as manipulation, mobilization, and full kinetic chain therapy with exercise may help recovery and decrease pain associated with tennis elbow.
If conservative treatments have not worked after 6 to 12 months, surgery may be recommended. Surgery removes scar and degenerative tissue from the tendons and is 85% effective for relieving the pain.
Recurrence of tennis elbow can be prevented by using braces to support the wrist, changing technique or equipment, or modifying jobs and activities if possible. Warming up before engaging in sporting activities will help prevent problems, too. Gently stretch the forearm and wrist before performing any sport or activity that can cause or aggravate tennis elbow.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2022. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Tennis-Elbow