Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is a common painful condition affecting the outer surface of the elbow, causing sensitivity, pain, and weakness in the forearm. It is one of the most frequent causes of pain in the elbow area. The condition is called 'tennis elbow' because it is more commonly seen in tennis players, who frequently use their arms and wrists. However, it can also affect people who engage in repetitive arm movements.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons (the extensions of muscles) in the elbow become inflamed and damaged due to repetitive motion, leading to pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow:

The symptoms of tennis elbow can include:

• Severe pain and sensitivity on the outer side of the elbow
• Pain during hand movements
• Radiation of pain to the hand, wrist, and forearm
• Increased pain, especially in the mornings or after activities
• Weakness and decreased grip strength

How is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

The diagnosis can be made through clinical symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. Radiological methods such as ultrasound, MRI, or tomography are also used in the diagnosis.

How is Tennis Elbow Treated?

The treatment methods that can be applied are as follows:

Injection Therapy

• Prolotherapy: Prolotherapy is a pain treatment method aimed at strengthening damaged, worn-out, and degenerated connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, and joints. It involves injecting irritant (causing irritation) and proliferative (stimulating cell regeneration) solutions to promote healing.
• PRP Therapy: In PRP therapy, a small amount of blood is drawn, and platelets (which contain healing proteins) are separated from other blood cells. These platelets are then injected into the painful area.
• Smart Plasma Sanakin: During this application, autologous anti-cytokine and cytokine factors obtained from the patient's own blood are used. This activates the tissue healing mechanisms in the treated areas. For the procedure, 10 ml of blood is taken from the patient and processed in a laboratory for approximately 3 hours before being injected.
• Steroid Injections: Injected corticosteroids can temporarily relieve joint pain and inflammation.

Other Treatment Methods

Rest, Pain Relievers, Anti-inflammatory Medications, Wrist Support, Tennis Elbow Brace, Physical Therapy