Tennis elbow of the golfer
Tennis elbow (o epicondilitis lateral) is a chronic inflammation of the tendons (o tendinitis) in a group of muscles that are attached to the lateral elbow.
It is called tennis elbow because it affects those who practice this sport, however it can affect anyone exercising a repeated stress on the elbow joint.
Causes
Repeated contraction of these muscles can cause small tears in the tendon and cause pain and swelling. It may also be due to overloading of the joint, or diseases such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms
- Pain when moving the elbow.
- Difficulty moving the elbow.
- Inflammation.
- Little power to wield things by hand.
Symptoms worsen with increased activity of the forearm.
Treatments
The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation. Among the treatments include splints or plaster immobilization, NSAIDs (aspirina or ibuprofen) or steroid injections. It can also relieve the application of heat and cold.
When they are gone the pain and inflammation, The doctor may advise rehabilitation and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve the functioning of the tendon. Thus is prevented from recurring or tendon rupture.