Definition of Tennis Elbow
Our definition would likely be a little more straightforward, like, dull pain on the outer part of the forearm that’s driving me nuts, pissing me off and making it hard to play my best tennis.
Since that’s less than official-sounding description, let’s take a look at how a few reputable resources define tennis elbow.
As defined by MayoClinic:
“Tennis elbow is a painful condition that occurs when tendons in your elbow are overworked, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. The pain of tennis elbow occurs primarily where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the outside of your elbow. Pain can also spread into your forearm and wrist.”
Another by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, AAOS:
“Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition of the elbow caused by overuse. Not surprisingly, playing tennis or other racquet sports can cause this condition. But several other sports and activities can also put you at risk.
Tennis elbow is an inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. The forearm muscles and tendons become damaged from overuse — repeating the same motions again and again. This leads to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow.”
One more by, MedicineNet:
“Tennis elbow is a condition that produces severe, burning pain over the bone at the side of the elbow. The pain results from inflammation of the tendon that attaches muscle to the bony projection (called the epicondyle) on the outside of the elbow.
Tennis elbow usually begins with mild pain and can worsen over time. The pain is exacerbated by pressing on the affected area or by lifting objects, particularly with extension of the wrist. Using a screwdriver can worsen the injury and cause pain. In advanced cases, even simple movements of the elbow joint can produce pain.”
Yuck, right?
There’s no doubt, tennis elbow sucks, but how can we be sure we’re dealing with tennis elbow? Truthfully, the best way to know for sure is to have a doctor diagnose you. However, let’s take a look at some of the common symptoms that would help you recognize your plight.
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