Dr. David Altchek is an attending surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) Sports Medicine Institute in New York City and HSS West Palm Beach, Florida.
Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in the elbow and causes pain and discomfort. While commonly associated with tennis players, anyone who engages in repetitive arm motions can develop this condition. If you’re experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, seeking the expertise of Dr. Altchek, a tennis elbow doctor in NYC, is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Understanding Tennis Elbow:
Tennis elbow is characterized by inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the bone on the outer part of the elbow. The repetitive use of the forearm muscles and excessive strain on these tendons can lead to the development of tennis elbow.
Causes of Tennis Elbow:
The primary causes of tennis elbow include:
- Repetitive arm motions, such as those involved in sports like tennis or golf
- Occupational activities that require repetitive gripping and twisting movements, such as painting or plumbing
- Improper technique during physical activities leads to increased strain on the tendons
Recognizing Symptoms:
Symptoms of tennis elbow may include:
- Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
- Pain that worsens with activities involving the wrist, such as lifting or grasping objects
Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow:
To diagnose tennis elbow, a tennis elbow doctor in NYC may perform the following:
- Physical examination and assessment of symptoms
- Review of medical history and activities that may have contributed to the condition
- Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to rule out other possible causes
- Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve involvement, if necessary
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow:
Treatment for tennis elbow often begins with conservative approaches, including:
- Rest and avoid activities that worsen symptoms
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
- Corticosteroid injections for targeted relief of pain and inflammation
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) to stimulate the healing of the affected tendons
- Surgical intervention in severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments
Seeking Relief with a Tennis Elbow Doctor in NYC
If you’re experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a tennis elbow doctor in NYC. Dr. Altchek has extensive knowledge and experience in effectively diagnosing and treating this condition. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.