Tennis Elbow Treated by Orthopedic Doctors in Baltimore

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) causes pain at the outside of the elbow due to inflammation of the tendons attached at the elbow that extend or bend back the wrist and fingers.

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive motion of the wrist and arm. Overuse and muscle strain associated with repetitive motion causes the tendons to tear where the forearm connects to the elbow. Tennis elbow is different than golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) in which pain occurs at the inside of the elbow.

Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain in the outside of the elbow that can be felt through the forearm and wrist. The pain can make it difficult to grasp or shake hands. 

Tennis elbow is diagnosed by taking a medical history and conducting a physical exam. X-rays and MRIs may be used to view the elbow’s bone and tissue to rule out other hand, wrist and elbow conditions.

Treatment options for tennis elbow include:

• Rest
• Ice
• Bracing
• Stretching and strengthening
• Cortisone shots

Surgery rarely is required to relieve tennis elbow symptoms.