Lateral epicondylitis/tennis elbow

Alternative names:

epicondylitis; epitrochlear bursitis; tennis elbow

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at pain relief and reducing inflammation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, local injection of cortisone and a local anesthetic into the affected area, immobilization of the forearm and elbow with a splint for 2 to 3 weeks, heat therapy, and physical therapy are all treatments which may improve the symptoms. To prevent the recurrence of the injury, a splint may be worn during aggravating activities, or the activities may need to be modified. Surgical release of the tendon at the elbow is rarely indicated to relieve the pain.

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome is good with treatment.

Complications:

• recurrence of the injury with overuse

Calling your health care provider:

Apply home treatment (over-the-counter anti-inflammatory analgesics and immobilization) if symptoms are mild or if you have had this disorder before and you know this is what you have.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if this is the first time you have had these symptoms, or if home treatment does not relieve the symptoms.