Summary about Disease
Epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), is a condition that causes pain around the outside (lateral) or inside (medial) of the elbow. It's an inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside or inside of the elbow. Despite the names, it is not limited to tennis or golf players.
Symptoms
Pain or burning on the outer (tennis elbow) or inner (golfer's elbow) part of the elbow.
Weakness in the forearm.
Difficulty gripping objects.
Pain may radiate down the forearm.
Pain when making a fist.
Stiffness.
Causes
Repetitive motions of the wrist and arm.
Overuse of the forearm muscles.
Improper technique during sports or activities.
Forceful or awkward movements.
Jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting.
Poor conditioning.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen.
Topical Pain Relievers: Creams/gels containing NSAIDS like diclofenac.
Corticosteroid injections: Injections of corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and pain, but are generally avoided for long term use.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections: Utilizes the patient's own blood components to promote healing.
Other injections: Such as botulinum toxin (Botox) or prolotherapy.
Is Communicable
No, epicondylitis is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Use proper technique when performing repetitive activities.
Take breaks to rest your arm and wrist.
Stretch and strengthen your forearm muscles.
Use supportive equipment, such as a brace or strap.
Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
Ensure proper ergonomics at work.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of epicondylitis can vary greatly. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks with rest and treatment. More severe cases can last for several months or even longer, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed and repetitive strain continues. Chronic cases can persist for a year or more.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will examine your elbow and ask about your symptoms and activities.
Medical history: Review of your medical history and any activities that may have contributed to the condition.
Range of motion tests
Imaging tests: X-rays may be taken to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or fracture. MRI or ultrasound may be used to visualize the tendons and soft tissues.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can be gradual or sudden, depending on the cause.
Early Stage: Mild pain that increases with activity.
Mid Stage: Pain becomes more persistent and may radiate down the forearm. Weakness may be noticeable.
Late Stage: Pain is present even at rest and significantly limits activity. Chronic pain can develop.
Recurrence: Symptoms may improve and then return if aggravating activities are resumed.
Important Considerations
Rest is crucial for healing.
Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Addressing the underlying cause is essential to prevent recurrence.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary if other treatments are not effective.
Ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic pain and disability.