$Unique_ID{BRK01498}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{Words of Wisdom on Tennis Elbow}
$Subject{tennis elbow}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Words of Wisdom on Tennis Elbow


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QUESTION:  Although I play quite regularly and consider myself in pretty good
shape for a man my age, I have come down with a case of tennis elbow.  Not
only to I want to get rid of this affliction as soon as possible, but I also
want to know what to do to prevent it from ever happening again.  I would
appreciate your words of wisdom, as I am sure will many other tennis players
who read your column.

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ANSWER:  It is not tennis players alone who suffer from this common problem,
but also those who must grip a tool, clench their hands or use their fingers
excessively.  So a carpenter with a hammer, a doorman who must open many car
doors, and a pianist and computer operator at their respective keyboard may
all experience the same complaints.  The pain is usually felt at the outer
side of the elbow, where the tendons from muscles in the forearm attach to the
bony bump on the humerus (bone of the upper arm) called the "lateral humeral
epicondyle".  Thus tennis elbow is more properly named an "epicondylitis" for
it is an inflammation of the tissues in this area.  It is more frequent in
older people, but can strike the professional and amateur alike, whenever the
stress and demands of the game (or occupation) exceed the strength and ability
of the tissues to cope.  The first step in treatment is to reduce the pain and
swelling of the inflammation.  Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
such as ibuprofen can be most effective.  Alternating applications of ice
(which constricts the dilated blood vessels) with friction massage (which
increases circulation) can speed up healing.  Rest, of course, is a must.
Once the pain has subsided, rehabilitation exercises which stretch and
strengthen the muscles can help get you back to the game more rapidly.
Preventing the recurrence of this painful problem will also depend upon
continued strengthening and conditioning of the tissues in this area, as well
as proper warm-up exercises, but may also be aided by changing your grip or
racket.  Check with your local tennis coach or club professional.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
