Tennis and Pickleball Elbow
Tennis and pickleball elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition of the elbow caused by overuse. Not surprisingly, playing tennis or other racquet sports can cause this condition. Tennis elbow is an inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. The forearm muscles and tendons become damaged from overuse (repeating the same motions again and again), which leads to pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow.
What Can Cause Tennis and Pickleball Elbow?
Recent studies show that tennis and pickleball elbow are often caused by damage to a specific forearm muscle. The extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle helps stabilize the wrist when the elbow is straight. When the ECRB is weakened from overuse, microscopic tears form in the tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle, which leads to inflammation and pain. This can occur during a tennis groundstroke, for example. The ECRB may also be at increased risk for damage because of its position, because as the elbow bends and straightens, the muscle rubs against bony bumps which can cause gradual muscle wear and tear over time.



TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR TENNIS & PICKLEBALL ELBOW
As with most orthopedic conditions, patients will often begin with a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, ice and rest (and in some cases, steroid injections).
When these methods are no longer effective, Carolina Nonsurgical Orthopedics offers the latest in cutting-edge treatments to reduce pain and get you back to the activities you enjoy. Some of these innovative alternatives to surgery include Orthobiologics and Regenerative Medicine treatments, such as:
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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: Use your own platelets to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing.
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Prolotherapy: Uses dextrose (sugar water) in place of steroid to reduce pain and promote healing.
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Shockwave: A non-invasive therapy that uses impulses to treat chronic pain and repair tissue.
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Ultrasound-Guided Tendon Fenestration: Using the ultrasound we can target the tendon with the needle to stimulate healing of the diseased portion.
See the full list of conditions and treatments offered at Carolina Nonsurgical Orthopedics.
READ MORE ABOUT TENNIS & PICKLEBALL ELBOW
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by overuse or repetitive motion of the arm and elbow. It commonly affects athletes, particularly those who engage in racquet sports like tennis, but it can also impact individuals who perform repetitive tasks in their jobs. Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, and difficulty with basic activities like lifting or gripping. In many cases, the condition can become chronic, making effective treatment essential for recovery. One treatment that has gained popularity in recent years is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP therapy is a cutting-edge regenerative treatment that can significantly improve the healing process of damaged tissues in the elbow. PRP therapy works by harnessing the body's own healing mechanisms. The process involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets, and then injecting the concentrated platelets back into the injured area. The platelets contain growth factors that promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and encourage new cell growth. For tennis elbow patients in Raleigh, NC, PRP therapy has emerged as a non-invasive, highly effective alternative to traditional treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery. One of the major advantages of PRP therapy in Raleigh, NC, is that it is a natural treatment. Since PRP uses the patient’s own blood, the risk of infection, allergic reactions, or adverse effects is minimal. This makes it a safer choice compared to other therapies that involve synthetic chemicals or medications. Additionally, PRP is typically administered in a few sessions, with minimal downtime required. Patients in Raleigh, NC, can often resume normal activities within a short period after the injection. This is especially beneficial for those who don’t want to disrupt their daily routine or sports activities. In Raleigh, NC, many orthopedic clinics and sports medicine centers are now offering PRP therapy for tennis elbow. This treatment is often recommended after other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications, have failed to provide relief. For those who are struggling with chronic tennis elbow pain and have not found success with traditional methods, PRP therapy can offer new hope. Research has shown that PRP therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve functionality in patients with tennis elbow. A study conducted on patients with lateral epicondylitis demonstrated that PRP injections provided better long-term relief compared to corticosteroid injections. In Raleigh, NC, patients who undergo PRP treatment typically experience a reduction in pain and an increase in their ability to perform activities that were once difficult or impossible due to the condition. Moreover, PRP therapy can potentially delay or avoid the need for surgery. In many cases, surgery for tennis elbow is seen as a last resort when all other treatments have failed. However, PRP therapy in Raleigh, NC, provides a more conservative option that can help patients heal without undergoing an invasive procedure. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. It’s important to note that not all patients will respond to PRP therapy in the same way. Results can vary based on factors such as the severity of the injury and how well the body responds to the growth factors in the PRP. However, many patients in Raleigh, NC, find PRP therapy to be an effective solution when combined with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes rehabilitation and lifestyle modifications. In conclusion, PRP therapy is an innovative and promising treatment for tennis elbow. In Raleigh, NC, this therapy has become an increasingly popular option for those seeking relief from the pain and limitations associated with lateral epicondylitis. As a natural and minimally invasive treatment, PRP offers a safe and effective alternative to more traditional methods, making it an appealing option for many tennis elbow sufferers in Raleigh, NC.


WHY CAROLINA
NONSURGICAL ORTHOPEDICS
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All Providers are BOARD CERTIFIED and Specially Trained in Nonsurgical Orthopedics
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Over 50,000+ and Counting Procedures Performed
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Procedures Performed with Ultrasound Guidance for Accuracy and Safety
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Local and Independent Practice That is NOT a Franchise
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Discounts for Service Members, Teachers, and Public Servants
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Serving Raleigh Since 2013