Lateral Epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is inflammation and tissue degradation of the muscles responsible for bending the wrist backward, or rotating the wrist and forearm. Despite the name, this condition is not just caused from playing tennis. Symptoms may be brought on by trauma, repetitive stress, or working in awkward postures.
These muscles have a common attachment on the bone (lateral epicondyle) on the outside of the elbow. With this condition, pain may be present with simple activities such as reaching for a glass, turning a door handle, dressing, or more aggressive activities such as painting, lifting, fishing, tennis or golf.
Discomfort associated with this repetitive stress disorder may be extremely debilitating. Treatment may include removal of the repetitive stress, rest, thermal modalities, physical or occupational therapy, bracing, injections, and in severe cases, surgery.
