Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis or Extensor Tendionpathy all refer to the same condition, but it is the last name that is most appropriate. Extensor tendinopathy or Tennis Elbow is due to an overuse syndrome of the wrist extensor muscles, which are located on the outside of the forearm.
Due to faulty movement patterns of the arm, overused muscles, an awkward sitting shoulder blade or a neck condition, weakness may develop and affect the shoulder, elbow and wrist.
Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow symptoms, the pain initially occurs in the extensor tendons when the wrist is extended against resistance (eg, as in manual screw driving or hitting a backhand shot with a racket). Pain can extend from the lateral epicondyle to the mid forearm; with time, subperiosteal hemorrhage, calcification, spur formation on the lateral epicondyle, and, most importantly, tendon degeneration can occur.
Pain along the common extensor tendon when the fingers are extended against resistance and the elbow is held straight is diagnostic.
For help with your sports injuries, make an appointment with Dr. Mark Potter at Greensborough Family Chiropractic and Neuro Rehab Centre on 03 9432 4644.
Dr Mark was team chiropractor for the AFL premiership team in 2009. He has an interest in Sports performance and in Sports Injury Rehab.
