ELBOW
PAIN
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) and
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
| Description
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, describes a soreness
or pain around the bony prominence (epicondyle) on the outside
(lateral) part of the elbow. Golfer’s Elbow, or Medial
Epicondylitis, describes a similar condition where the pain
is focused around the knobby bump on the inside (medial) of
the elbow closest to the body.
Overuse or stress of the muscles in the forearm may cause
small tears and inflammation in the tendons that attach to
the inside or outside of the elbow. Not limited to tennis
players and golfers, this pain is common as a result of repetitive
motions and excess gripping, squeezing, and lifting.
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Lateral
(Oustide) View of the Elbow
(Mouse over to see tendons)
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Common symptoms include pain at the outside or inside of the elbow
that is magnified when gripping or squeezing.
Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment for Lateral or Medial Epicondylitis includes
rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy,
and avoiding the aggravating physical activities contributing to
overuse of the tendons. In some cases, steroid injections may be
used to reduce pain and inflammation, but they are used sparingly
due to potentially damaging side effects. Conservative treatment
may take an extended period of time to relieve the pain.
Conventional Surgery
Surgery is the last resort for Lateral or Medial Epicondylitis
that does not respond to conservative treatment. A common surgical
approach involves the making of an incision and removing damaged
tissue from the tendon, shaving down the bone, and re-attaching
the tendon. Another approach is to sever the tendon from the epicondyle,
but this can render the muscles ineffective.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT)
is a safe and effective, non-invasive (no incisions) alternative
that eliminates many of the risks associated with conventional surgery.
ESWT is indicated for patients who have experienced chronic pain
for an extended period of time and have not responded to conservative
treatment. ESWT delivers high-energy sound waves, or acoustical
energy, to the affected area to create a micro trauma that promotes
revascularization and triggers the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
The FDA approved high-energy ESWT for Lateral Epicondylitis in March
2003.
Benefits of ESWT include non-invasive treatment, a high success
rate, single treatment protocol, and fast recovery with quick return
to work and normal activities. Studies have shown very high success
rates in eliminating or significantly reducing pain. Talk to your
doctor about your specific medical condition to see if ESWT is right
for you.
DOCTOR FINDER - Click here to find medical
professionals in California and Texas trained in ESWT.
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