What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow (A.K.A golfer’s elbow or lateral epicondylitis) is a painful condition of the elbow caused by inflammation and/or irritation of the tendons that attach to the elbow. The condition can lead to degeneration and tearing of these tendons along with weakening of their attachment sites to the elbow.

Causes

Repetitive activities can predispose a person to this condition through overuse of the tendons and muscles attached to the elbow. Such activities include:

• Golfing

• Playing tennis

• Weightlifting

• Using a hammer or screwdriver

• Trauma

• Improper use of equipment

• Computer use

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness along the elbow where the forearm muscles and tendons attached to it

• Pain radiating down the forearm and into the wrist

• Weakening of the grip

• Increased discomfort in the forearm and elbow with certain activities

Treatment

• Rest

• Ice

• NASIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatories)

• Bracing

• Ultrasound

• Physical therapy

• Steroid injections

Bracing

There are different braces designed to treat tennis elbow. Most, simply, allow the muscle and tendons the ability to rest. However, The Lonnie Brace offers a unique therapeutic option. Through specially designed padding, this brace decompresses the area of elbow injury and selectively cushions it against further damage. These modes of action help accelerate healing and allow a person to return to normal physical activity sooner.