Tennis Elbow, Anyone?

Continued...

Always lift objects such as backpacks and suitcases with your palm up to avoid irritating the tendon during daily activities. If you've been in pain for a while, don't overdo the exercises. Start slowly - it may take four to six weeks to regain substantial muscle mass.

Is Surgery Necessary?

If conservative treatment is unsuccessful, injections and/or surgery may become necessary. These more drastic measures may provide some relief, but they're unlikely to restore your arm to its preinjury strength and flexibility levels. If your elbow soreness doesn't disappear within two weeks, be sure to get treatment until the pain does disappear.

A two to three-month course of physical therapy is recommended before receiving an injection. You will learn a series of stretching and strengthening exercises that should become part of your training even after you have recovered, in order to prevent a recurrence.

Along with physical therapy your physician may recommend a two to three-week course of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs, such as Clinoril, Feldene, Naprosyn and Motrin, can help reduce swelling and inflammation. They affect people differently, so if one type doesn't seem to work, ask your doctor for a different one.

Acupuncture has also been successful at treating tennis elbow, and a course of treatment of this mildly invasive procedure should be tried before submitting to the surgeon's knife.

A cortisone injection may provide some relief, but a recent study indicates that more conservative treatment works better in the long run. More than one or two injections may do more damage than good - too much cortisone can cause the tissues to deteriorate, giving the surgeon that much less to work with.

Surgery entails removing the tendon from the bone, scraping off built-up scar tissue and reattaching the tendon lower on the bone to release some of the tension. After surgery you'll need a long period of recovery and physical therapy before you return to action. Be cautious about injuring the site again.

More often than not, chronic elbow pain is caused by improper technique or overuse. Get some lessons to correct your form from a pro who's familiar with elbow problems, and treat your injury at the first sign of symptoms.

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About the authors: Carol L. Otis, M.D., is Chief Medical Advisor to the Sanex WTA and a UCLA student health physician. Roger Goldingay is a former professional soccer player. They are married and the co-authors of The Athletic Woman's Survival Guide.

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Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
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Common Medical Problems
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Emergency!
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