Tennis Elbow
By James D. Spearman, MD

Pain around the outside of the elbow is commonly called tennis elbow. What is tennis elbow, how does it occur, and how is it treated? Tennis elbow is a common name for lateral epicondylitis or inflammation of the outside part of the end of the humerus (upper arm bone). This area is the attachment point of a group of muscles called the extensor mass.
Excess stress on the muscles cause small micro tears in the tendon attachment. This results in pain with certain activities such as shaking hands, lifting heavy objects, and turning objects (door handles, wrenches, etc.).

Treatment involves exercises to strengthen the extensor muscles, anti-inflammatory medicine, use of tennis elbow straps and avoidance of activities that can re injure the area. The condition can become chronic and take months to resolve. Occasionally, injections and even surgery are indicated.

If you have elbow pain that is limiting your activities, see your trainer or doctor for proper care and treatment.