Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
- Patients with lateral epicondylitis usually experience activity related discomfort at the outer elbow.
- Lateral epicondylitis is a degenerative condition of the tendon attachments at the outer elbow. It can be caused by sports and exertional activity but frequently there is no known cause.
- Dr. Rubin can usually diagnose lateral epiconylitis after listening to your complaints and examining your elbow. X-rays and MRI are performed in some cases.
- There are a variety of non-surgical and surgical treatment measures for lateral epiconylitis. Non-surgical treatment measures include rest, tennis elbow bands, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Injection of medication into the outer elbow can frequently provide relief of symptoms. Surgical treatment is available and indicated if non-surgical measures fail to alleviate symptoms.
- The success of surgery depends on several factors including the severity of the tendon injury, duration of symptoms and prior treatment. Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms with return to activities of daily living and sports.
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection therapy has shown great promise in the treatment of lateral epiconylitis. Dr. Rubin can discuss the benefits of PRP injection therapy with you.
- We encourage our patients to be as active as possible during their treatment because active patients recover more quickly. Dr. Rubin will help determine which activities are safe and beneficial to your recovery. Do not undertake strenuous activities without first consulting your physician.