Tennis Elbow

Lateral epicondylitis is commonly known as tennis elbow even though most persons who develop this problem do not regularly play racquet sports. Epicondylitis refers to inflammation of the tendons near where they insert on the bone of the outer elbow. With repetitive stress, small tears within these tendons lead to pain. Many persons develop this problem in their 30’s and 40’s however it may occur at any age with overuse. A related condition known as golfer’s elbow causes a similar pain on the inner side of the elbow.  What are the symptoms? Pain on the outer side of the elbow or in the forearm just below the elbow is the most common complaint. Grip weakness is often a secondary complaint. Direct pressure over the site reproduces the pain. Lateral epicondylitis may occur in persons who also have a pinched nerve in the forearm. This condition, known as radial tunnel syndrome, may causes pain with wrist rotation activities (such as using a screwdriver) and in advanced cases results in difficulty bringing the fingers up straight.