A tennis elbow injury can cause pain, soreness, and tenderness in the area around your elbow joint. If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor will consider your age, activity level, and other factors, such as how long you have been experiencing Houston tennis elbow pain.
The diagnosis is made through a physical examination. Your doctor may also order X-rays or other imaging tests to understand the injury better and rule out any serious underlying conditions. After the diagnosis, your doctor can recommend treatment options, such as rest, stretching and strengthening exercises, corticosteroid injections, or surgery, if needed.
Causes of tennis elbow
These are some of the causes:
- Overuse of the elbow joint: Playing too much tennis or making any repetitive motion with your arm can cause inflammation and damage to the tendons in your elbow.
- Poor technique: Not using proper tennis techniques can put additional strain on your elbow joint.
- Weak muscles: Weak muscles in the forearm may increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.
- Injuries: Any injury to the elbow joint can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.
When to see a doctor for a tennis elbow
These are the signs that you need to see your doctor:
Pain or soreness that lasts more than a few days
When you experience pain or soreness in your elbow that lasts more than a few days, it is important to see your doctor. Your doctor can diagnose and treat the injury so you can get back to playing tennis as soon as possible.
Swelling or inflammation
If you notice swelling or inflammation around your elbow, this could indicate a tennis elbow injury. Seek medical attention so your doctor can diagnose your injury and provide proper treatment.
Difficulty using your arm
If you have difficulty using or moving your arm due to pain, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will be able to diagnose and treat the injury properly so that you can get back to your regular activities.
Recurring pain
Recurring pain is a sign of an underlying condition, such as tennis elbow, that needs to be addressed. If you have recurring pain in your elbow, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Limited range of motion
By limited range of motion, we mean you cannot move your arm freely. This can indicate an issue with the joint or muscles around the elbow which may require medical attention. It is important to remember that tennis elbow injuries can be very painful and affect your ability to play tennis or other sports.
Treatment options for tennis elbow include:
- Rest: Resting your arm can help to reduce the pain associated with tennis elbow and allow your body to heal.
- Physical therapy: Your doctor may suggest exercises to help strengthen the muscles around your elbow joint and improve your range of motion.
If you have any of these signs or symptoms, it is important to see J. Michael Bennett, MD, PA, for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
