Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an elbow injury that occurs as a result of overuse, most commonly from playing tennis. The pain associated with this condition affects the lateral epicondyle, the area where the forearms' tendons connect with the bony outer portion of the elbow. While tennis elbow typically affects adults aged 30 to 50, anyone who continually stresses their wrists is at a higher risk of developing this condition.
The symptoms of tennis elbow affect the inside of the elbow, and may include some of the following:
Tennis elbow is usually diagnosed by examining the affected elbow and reviewing the patient's medical history. To assess pain, pressure may be applied to the elbow. In some cases, x-rays may be done to rule out other conditions that may be responsible for causing elbow pain.
In many cases, tennis elbow heals on its own within two years. Initial pain can often be managed with rest, ice and over-the-counter painkillers. Cases that don't respond to the aforementioned measures may require additional treatment, in the form of exercises, orthotics, or corticosteroids. Severe, persistent cases of tennis elbow may require surgery; however, surgery is only necessary for about ten percent of those suffering from tennis elbow. Your doctor will develop a customized treatment plan based on your individual condition.
To prevent tennis elbow from occurring, certain preventive measures can be taken. Individuals participating in sports should train sufficiently beforehand to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and wrist. It is important to keep the wrist straight during all lifting activities, including weightlifting, so that the stronger muscles of the upper arm do most of the work. Stretching exercises before and after use of the wrist can also minimize the occurrence of tennis elbow.
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Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain and numbness in the outside of the hand and wrist as a result of compression or inflammation of the ulnar nerve, which allows for sensation with the little finger and half of the ring finger.
Beginning in the side of the neck, the ulnar nerve travels all the way down the arm, including through the cubital tunnel, which is located just inside the elbow. When the elbow is bent, the cubital tunnel can stretch and may irritate the nerve over time. This condition may develop as a result of a frequent bending of the elbow from lifting or reaching, as well as from direct pressure on the elbow over time.
Patients with cubital tunnel syndrome may experience pain and numbness in the outside of the hand and wrist, especially after the elbow has been bent for a long period of time. Some patients may feel the sensation of an electric shock down the arm to the little finger. Your doctor can diagnose this condition through a physical exam and nerve conduction velocity test.
Treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome usually begins with anti-inflammatory medication to minimize pain and other symptoms. Taking frequent breaks during physical labor can also help prevent symptoms from occurring, while wearing a splint or brace can control pain overnight.
If symptoms do not improve with conservative treatments, surgery may be needed to release pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel. This can be done through ulnar nerve transposition or medial epicondylectomy, both of which are outpatient procedures that are performed under general or regional anesthesia.
