Diagnosis
In many cases, a thorough medical history and physical examination suffice for diagnosing elbow pain, such as tennis elbow. During the examination, a healthcare professional may apply pressure to the affected area and assess the range of motion in your elbow, wrist, and fingers.
Additional imaging tests like X-rays or sonograms may be required if the healthcare provider suspects an underlying cause for the symptoms during the elbow pain treatment process.
Treatment
Tennis elbow frequently exhibits natural improvement over time. However, if pain relievers and self-care strategies prove ineffective, the next course of action could involve engaging in physical therapy. In cases where tennis elbow persists despite prior treatments, a medical procedure, such as an injection or surgery, may be considered as a potential solution.
Therapy
If your symptoms are associated with tennis or work-related activities, a specialist may assess your tennis playing technique or work tasks, as well as examine your equipment. This evaluation aims to identify the most effective methods for minimizing strain on the injured tissue.
A physical, occupational, or hand therapist can provide instruction on exercises designed to enhance the strength of the forearm muscles and tendons. The use of a forearm strap or brace may also be recommended to alleviate stress on the injured tissue.
Surgical or other procedures
Various treatments can be employed to address tennis elbow, including:
- Injections: Different types of shots are administered into the affected tendon, such as corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, botulinum toxin A (Botox), or irritant solutions like sugar water or salt water (prolotherapy).
- Dry Needling: This technique involves gently puncturing the damaged tendon in multiple locations with a needle, which can be beneficial.
- Needle Fenestration: Ultrasound guidance is utilized to repeatedly pass a needle through a numbed tendon, initiating a new healing process in the tendon.
- Ultrasonic Tenotomy (TENEX Procedure): Similar to needle fenestration, this procedure employs ultrasound to guide a special needle into the damaged part of the tendon. Ultrasonic energy vibrates the needle at high speeds, transforming the damaged tissue into a liquid that can be removed.
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy: This therapy sends shock waves to the injured tissue to alleviate pain and promote healing. A tool is placed on the skin to deliver these shock waves.
- Surgery: When symptoms persist after 6 to 12 months of other treatments, surgery to remove the damaged tissue may be considered. This can be performed through either an open procedure with a large incision or arthroscopically through several small openings.
Regardless of the chosen treatment, it is essential to incorporate exercises to rebuild strength and regain elbow function, as they are crucial for the recovery process.