Tennis elbow is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons in the elbow. The condition is medically known as lateral epicondylitis and is caused by the repetitive motion of the arm, particularly the forearm muscles that attach to the outside of the elbow.
- An insight into tennis elbow
There are four stages of tennis elbow that a person may experience, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and limited mobility.
- Stage 1: Early Discomfort, The first stage of tennis elbow, is often characterized by a dull ache or discomfort in the outer part of the elbow. This stage may occur after performing activities that involve gripping, such as playing tennis, golf, or using hand tools. The pain may worsen when lifting objects, extending the wrist, or twisting the forearm. The pain is usually mild at this stage and may subside with rest.
- Stage 2: Increasing Pain As the condition progresses, the pain in the elbow may become more severe and persistent. The pain may start to affect daily activities, such as gripping objects or opening jars. The pain may also radiate down the forearm, and the affected arm may feel weak. This stage may occur several weeks after the initial discomfort and may require medical attention.
- Stage 3: Chronic Pain In the third stage of tennis elbow, the pain may become chronic and last for several months. The pain may be constant and limit the affected arm’s use. At this stage, the tendons in the elbow may be significantly damaged, and there may be inflammation in the joint. This stage may require more aggressive treatment, such as physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery.
- Stage 4: Limited Mobility, The fourth stage of tennis elbow, is the most severe and may involve limited mobility in the affected arm. The pain may be excruciating, and simple activities like holding a cup or typing may be impossible. Experts from Naples Pain control clinic state that at this stage, the tendons in the elbow may be completely torn, and surgery may be necessary to repair the damage.
Tennis elbow is a painful and potentially debilitating condition that can affect anyone who performs repetitive arm movements. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the situation, and early intervention can prevent the disease from progressing to the later stages. Recognizing the early signs of tennis elbow and seeking medical attention if the pain persists or worsens is essential.
- How can regenerative medicine help?
Regenerative medicine, which involves using the body’s natural healing mechanisms to promote tissue regeneration, has emerged as a promising cure for this condition. One such approach is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which involves injecting a concentration of the patient’s blood platelets into the affected area.
