Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an inflammation of tendons and muscles on the lateral side (outside) of the elbow.

What are the Causes of Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow can be caused by playing tennis, especially in amateur players who have improper form, but is by no means limited to tennis players. In fact, any repetitive motion involving the overuse of the forearm muscles, especially involving gripping or squeezing, can cause tennis elbow.

What are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

• Tenderness/soreness on the outside of the elbow
• Morning stiffness in the elbow
• Increased pain when grasping or gripping objects

Who Is Likely To Get Tennis Elbow?

• Tennis players and other players of racquet sports
• Players of throwing sports
• Workers performing certain types of repetitive motion
• Gardeners
• Carpenters

What Does Treatment for Tennis Elbow Involve?

• Analgesic treatment using NSAIDs (ibuprofen, tramadol, etc.)
• Elbow splinting
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is not standard first-line treatment for tennis elbow, but when other, more conservative methods fail, it may be quite helpful.

The surgery involves a small incision over the elbow to trim the tendon or even release the tendon and then reattach it to the bone. It can usually be performed in an outpatient procedure.

What Are The Advantages Of Surgery?

Surgery may provide significant symptomatic relief for sufferers of tennis elbow in cases where other types of medical management are not successful.

How Long Does It Take?

Surgery for tennis elbow typically takes a couple of hours.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Usually, one surgery should suffice.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat Tennis Elbow?

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy – this is the same principle as lithotripsy that is used to treat kidney stone patients.

Will I Have Pain?

Pain should be reduced by treatment. There may be some postoperative pain, but this can be managed by prescription or over-the-counter medications.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

You will go home the same day of the surgery. You can go back to work in a day or two; of course, you may not be able to use the affected arm for a while.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified orthopedic surgeons will perform the procedure.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Tennis Elbow Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.