Tennis Elbow Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Tennis elbow is the common name used for the elbow condition called lateral epicondylitis. It is an overuse injury that causes inflammation of the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). It is a painful condition occurring from repeated muscle contractions at the forearm that leads to inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle. The condition is more common in sports activities such as tennis, painting, hammering, typing, gardening, and playing musical instruments. Patients with tennis elbow experience elbow pain or burning that gradually worsens and a weakened grip
Your doctor will evaluate tennis elbow by reviewing your medical history, performing a thorough physical examination and ordering X-rays, MRI or electromyogram (EMG) to detect any nerve compression.
Your doctor will first recommend conservative treatment options to treat the tennis elbow symptoms. These may include:
Treatment Options
- Activity Restrictions: Limit use and rest the arm from activities that worsen symptoms
- Ice: Ice packs applied to the injury will help diminish swelling and pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 20 minutes four times a day for a couple days. Never place ice directly over the skin
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications and/or steroid injections may be ordered to treat the pain and swelling
- Occupational Therapy: OT may be ordered for strengthening and stretching exercises to the forearm once your symptoms have decreased
- Ultrasound Guided Steroid Injections
- PRP Injections – using your own blood we can try to stimulate healing of the tendon
Dr. Kanaan is highly trained at diagnosing and treating tennis elbow. He will discover the best treatment option for you and your lifestyle. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our office at (919) 719-2270.
