What is Tennis Elbow?

Also known as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the extensors of the wrist and fingers. More recent research has also suggested that forceful pulls and/or extensions as well as direct blows to the lateral epicondyle (the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow) are large contributors to this condition.

Symptoms

Pain and swelling at the lateral epicondyle are usually present. This pain is aggravated with wrist extension, e.g. lifting with the palm down, pouring bottles, etc…

Treatments

An epicondylitis clasp is used which compresses the extensor tendons where they blend with the muscle. This reduces the bending stress on the tendon and so helps to relieve the symptoms.

If severe, the use of a Resting Wrist Hand Orthosis may be necessary.

What is Golfers Elbow?

Also known as medial epicondylitis, this condition arises as a consequence of overuse of the muscles and tendons responsible for flexing the wrist, fingers, and thumb and also pronating the forearm (a movement which turns the palms of the hands into the body).