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| The Facts About Tennis Elbow (2015-04-23) Pain in your elbow can be difficult to deal with. You may not realize how often your elbow is used for everyday tasks, so having pain can prevent you from completing this menial tasks. There are many conditions that affect the elbow. However, a common condition is tennis elbow. Tennis elbow, which is also known as lateral epicondylitis is a condition affecting the outside of the elbow. It is commonly caused by the wear and tear of a tendon in the forearm that allows you to extend your wrist. Tennis elbow is caused by overuse and is common in those who play tennis or racquetball. Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain that may radiate from the elbow to the wrist. Typical activities such as opening a jar or turning a doorknob can cause greater pain. If you have pain in the elbow, it is important that you see an orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix AZ. The doctor will perform a thorough exam and may take some X-rays to help determine if you do have tennis elbow. Once diagnosed, the Phoenix orthopedic surgeon will review possible treatment options with you. Among the treatment options for tennis elbow are anti-inflammatory medications or various wrist and arm exercises to strengthen the tendon. The Phoenix orthopedic surgeon may also recommend a steroid injection. This injection helps to decrease inflammation and reduce pain. Another treatment option that is growing in popularity is the platelet rich plasma therapy. This treatment is the process of using your blood to help repair the damaged area. It has been said to be extremely effective in treating tennis elbow. Often times tennis elbow can be treated without surgery. In fact, 95% of patients have had success with the non-surgical treatments. However, in some cases if the treatment options do not work, the orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix, AZ might recommend surgical treatment. If you are experiencing pain in your elbow or wrist, it is important to seek treatment from a Phoenix orthopedic surgeon. At Phoenix Shoulder and Knee, our doctors have extensive experience treating a wide variety of conditions. For more information on tennis elbow, or to schedule an appointment, visit our website at PhoenixShoulderandKnee.com. | ![]() |