Lateral epicondylitis
Lateral epicondylitis caracterized as an injury caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm, it is also known as tennis player’s tendonitis. These muscles play a fundamental role in flexion and extension of the forearm and in movements of the wrist and fingers.
Most common pathologies
in the elbow and arm
Symptoms
Pain or tenderness in the bony protuberance on the outside of the elbow due to inflammation of the tendons. Pain when straightening or raising the wrist and hand and more intense when lifting a heavy object. Pain when you close your fist, hold an object without support or turn your fist to open cans or doorknobs. Pain that starts in the elbow and radiates down the forearm or up the upper arm.
Risk Factors
Activities with intensive use of the extensor muscles of the forearm (e.g. racket sports, tasks involving oscillating movements of hammers or paint brushes such as carpentry, mechanical work, poor posture at the computerand other manual activities); ages between 30 and 50.
Protective Factors
Ergonomic ergonomic correct posture during activities, whether in sports or at work; perform stretching and musculoskeletal warm-up exercises before starting sports or other activities involving muscular activity. activityapply ice to the elbow after exertion.
Treatment
It is recommended to rest and use ice locally 15 to 20 minutes every 4 hours for 2 to 3 days, as well as stretching 1 to 2x/day. The use of a band-type orthosis reduces the strain on the inflamed tendon and consequently its fatigue and the pain it causes when used, promoting faster recovery.
Information: All the information contained here is merely a summary for a general understanding of the pathologies, highlighting their definition, symptoms, risk factors, protective measures and treatment options.
Consulting a specialized health professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
