Tennis Elbow Surgery What You Need to Know

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many people who engage in repetitive arm motions, especially those who play tennis. Tennis elbow is a type of tendinitis that causes pain and inflammation in the elbow joint and the surrounding area. While most cases of tennis elbow in Glasgow can be treated with rest, ice, and physical therapy, some cases may require surgery. We offer tennis elbow surgery here at Elanic Medical, in addition to a number of other orthopaedic surgery options, enabling you to address your issues, resolve your discomfort, and get back to the activities you love. When you’re ready to learn more, reach out to Elanic Medical at our Glasgow offices and speak with a helpful member of our team to set up your consultation today.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that affects the elbow. It is a type of repetitive strain injury that occurs when the muscles and tendons in the forearm become damaged from overuse. The condition is called tennis elbow because it is often seen in tennis players, but it can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions with their arms and wrists.

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Do I Have Tennis Elbow?

The most common symptom of tennis elbow involves pain on the outside of the elbow. The pain may start off mild and gradually get worse over time. It may also be accompanied by weakness in the forearm and wrist, making it difficult to grip or lift objects. The pain may also be exacerbated by activities that involve gripping or twisting motions, such as using a screwdriver or opening a jar.

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive motions that strain the muscles and tendons in the forearm. Any activity—such as sports or a job—that requires repetitive motion, such as typing, playing tennis or baseball, or using a hammer, can also cause the condition. Poor technique or form when performing these activities can also contribute to—or further exacerbate—the development of tennis elbow.

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Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that can be treated non-surgically. Non-surgical treatment options are usually the first line of treatment for tennis elbow in Glasgow and will be explored with you during your in-person consultation.

Rest and Ice

Rest and ice form the first line of treatment for tennis elbow. Resting the affected arm and applying ice to the area can help reduce pain and swelling. Patients should avoid activities that aggravate the condition and try to rest the arm as much as possible. Ice packs can be applied to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an effective non-surgical treatment option for tennis elbow. A physical therapist can help patients perform exercises that can help strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected arm, improving flexibility and range of motion. Physical therapy can also include massage, ultrasound therapy, and other modalities to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Bracing and Supports

Bracing and supports can also be used to treat tennis elbow. These devices can help reduce stress on the affected area while also providing additional support to the muscles and tendons. Braces and supports can be worn during activities that aggravate the condition or during the day to provide support and reduce pain.

Surgical Treatment Options

Open Surgery

Open surgery is the traditional method for treating tennis elbow. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the affected area, remove the damaged tissue, and reattach healthy tissue to the bone. This surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically requires a few weeks of recovery time.

While open surgery is effective, it does have some drawbacks. The incision can be large, which can lead to scarring and a longer recovery time. Additionally, there is a higher risk of infection with open surgery.

Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical option for treating tennis elbow. During the procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision and use a small camera to guide the surgical instruments. This allows for a smaller incision, less scarring, and a shorter recovery time.

Arthroscopic surgery is a good option for patients who want to avoid the risks associated with open surgery. However, it may not be as effective for severe cases of tennis elbow. Both open and arthroscopic surgery have their pros and cons. The best surgical option will depend on the severity of the patient's tennis elbow and their individual needs.

Finding the Relief You Deserve

After your tennis elbow surgery, you’ll need to undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation to regain full use of the affected arm. Each patient is different, and the specifics of your surgery will be tailored to the unique details of your affliction. We’ll help you understand your recovery experience and provide you with a detailed timeline, answering any questions you might have about what you can expect after tennis elbow surgery in Glasgow.

For more than 10 years now, Elanic Medical has been offering patients in Glasgow and the surrounding areas an elevated experience. We’re excited to quickly, efficiently, and easily connect you with the healthcare you need, so you can resolve your issues and get back to the activities you enjoy most. When you’re ready to get started, reach out to Elanic in Glasgow and set up your initial consultation today.

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