WHAT IS TENNIS ELBOW?

Tennis elbow causes pain around the elbow due to tendonitis (inflammation) of the extensor forearm muscle complex, which attaches on the outer side of the elbow.

The radial nerve, which passes down across the elbow can also be affected along with other neural tissue from the neck.

The elbow joint may become stiff. The neck (cervical spine) may also be stiff and tender.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

Tennis elbow may not necessarily be caused by tennis. It may be caused by some other repetitive action. If tennis is the cause it can be due to:

• An altered pattern or posture
• A change in grip
• A change in stroke
• An increased level of play
• Irregular practice/play
• Different court surface
• Different racquet string tension

HOW TO HELP IT?

Treatment may involve rest from the causative action. Ice may help initially with inflammation.

Physiotherapy entails careful and detailed assessment of the possible causes, and which specific joints and tissues are involved.

Mobilization of the joints, elbow and cervical spine to improve mobility and release trapped nerves.

• Stretching the tight muscles, and the affected neural tissue.

• Friction techniques to improve the muscle tissue condition.

• Low dose ultrasound to improve soft tissue inflammation.

• Taping or trappings to offload/ realign the tendon and muscle.

HOW TO PREVENT RECURRENCE?

Once the tennis elbow symptoms have been resolved, the extensor muscles of the forearm should be strengthened eccentrically

The muscles and nerves should continue to be stretched.

You should work with your tennis coach to look at your grip racket size, strokes and string tension.

Think about warming up and warming down. Try to keep to a regular level of play.

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