Key Takeaways
- Tennis elbow often presents as pain or a burning sensation on the outer part of your elbow.
- Symptoms typically include a weak grip, pain that worsens with forearm activity, and morning stiffness.
- The condition is an overuse injury caused by repetitive strain on the forearm muscles and tendons.
- While it can sometimes resolve with rest, persistent symptoms may require professional medical treatment.
- If you're experiencing elbow pain, the expert team at Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates offers specialized orthopaedic surgery and care in PA. Schedule an appointment to get a clear diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Understanding Tennis Elbow
Despite its name, you don't have to be a tennis player to develop this condition. Tennis elbow is an overuse injury affecting the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to the outside of your elbow. Repetitive motions from activities like painting, plumbing, or even prolonged computer use can cause tiny tears in these tendons, leading to inflammation and pain.
The pain is centered around the lateral epicondyle, the bony bump on the outside of your elbow, which is why the medical term is lateral epicondylitis. Let's look at the specific symptoms that can help you identify if this is what you're experiencing.
1. Pain and Tenderness on the Outer Elbow
The most common and defining symptom of tennis elbow is pain localized to the outer part of the elbow. This area may feel tender to the touch, and the pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sharp, burning sensation, especially during activity.
This discomfort originates from inflammation and micro-tears in the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, which attaches to the lateral epicondyle. While the pain is centered at the elbow, it can sometimes radiate down the forearm toward the wrist.
2. Weak Grip Strength
Have you noticed it's harder to hold your coffee mug, turn a doorknob, or shake someone's hand? A noticeable decrease in grip strength is a telltale sign of tennis elbow.
The muscles responsible for gripping are the same ones affected by this condition. When the tendons connecting these muscles to the elbow are inflamed and damaged, the muscles can't generate as much force. This weakness can make everyday tasks feel difficult and frustrating.
3. Pain with Forearm Movements
Certain movements can significantly worsen the pain associated with tennis elbow. Activities that require you to extend your wrist or rotate your forearm often trigger a sharp increase in discomfort.
Common examples include:
- Lifting an object with your palm facing down
- Twisting a jar lid open
- Using a screwdriver or other tools
- Typing on a keyboard for extended periods
This pain occurs because these actions put direct strain on the already-inflamed tendons. You might find yourself avoiding these movements or changing how you use your arm to minimize the pain.
4. Morning Stiffness
Waking up with a stiff, achy elbow is another frequent complaint among those with tennis elbow. This stiffness is often most pronounced in the morning after a night of inactivity.
During rest, the inflamed tendons can tighten, causing the joint to feel rigid. The stiffness usually subsides after a few minutes of gentle movement as blood flow to the area increases. However, it can be a persistent and bothersome part of the condition.
5. Numbness or Tingling
While less common than pain and weakness, some people with tennis elbow experience numbness or tingling sensations. These feelings typically radiate from the elbow down into the forearm and fingers.
This symptom is often due to the inflammation around the elbow putting pressure on nearby nerves, particularly the radial nerve. If you experience persistent numbness or tingling, it's important to consult a doctor, as this could indicate nerve involvement that requires specific attention
Your Path to Recovery Starts Here
Ignoring elbow pain can lead to chronic issues and make recovery more difficult. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to seek professional care. The team at Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates is here to provide an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
Don't let elbow pain limit your life. Schedule an appointment with Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates today to explore your options, from physical therapy to advanced orthopaedic surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the beginning of tennis elbow feel like?
In its early stages, tennis elbow often starts as a mild ache on the outside of the elbow that appears after physical activity. It may feel slightly tender to the touch. Over time, this ache can become more persistent and progress into a sharper, more noticeable pain, even during simple daily tasks.
Can tennis elbow heal on its own?
In mild cases, tennis elbow can sometimes improve with rest, avoiding aggravating activities, and using over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or interferes with your daily life, it's unlikely to resolve completely without professional medical intervention.
How do I know if I have tennis elbow or golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) causes pain on the outer side of the elbow. Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) causes pain on the inner side of the elbow. Both are overuse injuries, but they affect different sets of tendons.
When should I see a doctor for tennis elbow?
You should see a doctor if your elbow pain persists for more than a few weeks despite rest and home care, if the pain is severe, or if you are unable to perform daily activities. It's also important to seek medical advice if you experience significant weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arm or hand.
