Lateral Epicondylalgia refers to pain experienced on the outside of the elbow, which can also travel down the forearm towards the wrist.
This condition presents gradually as pain arising from the top of the forearm and/or the outside of the elbow. This is where our main gripping muscles originate from and attach to the bone via tendons. Overuse of these forearm muscles with repetitive gripping activities is generally the cause of tennis elbow.
Common activities which overload the forearm include: repetitive gripping, lifting, using power tools, sub-optimal keyboard and mouse set up, painting and of course, tennis (particularly backhanded shots).
Symptoms
- Pain around the elbow
- Weakness in your wrist
- Weakness when gripping
- Tightness along top/outside of forearm
Management
- Reducing the activities and movements which will put extra strain on the muscles/tendons
- Pain relief medication: paracetamol, nurofen, voltarin… (please seek medical advice for further information)
- Ice packs
- Massage
- Taping
- Bracing
- Strengthening exercises of the forearm
For further information, book your appointment with our physios to get a clear assessment and treatment accordingly!