Tennis-Golfer’s Elbow
Epicondylitis can be described as a painful condition where the tendons attach to the bone. However, in cases that affect the inner part of the elbow, it is called golfer’s elbow, and in cases that affect the outer part, it is called tennis elbow. Difficulty of use and pain develop following inflammation that develops due to the repetitive strain of the bone attachment site by the forces transmitted through the tendons. It is more common in people who frequently do activities such as lifting, squeezing and turning. It can usually be seen in men and women between the ages of 30-50. It can develop after overuse and trauma.
There is localized pain in the inner or outer part of the elbow, and complaints increase with provocative activities that increase tendon tension. Pain can spread from the elbow to the forearm.
In cases of epicondylitis that can be treated successfully with non-surgical methods, activity regulation, use of supportive equipment, medication, physical therapy and injections when necessary can be tried. In cases where complaints do not go away despite 6-12 months of treatment, surgical treatment can be applied using arthroscopic or open surgical techniques.
Avoiding repetitive trauma or movements such as lifting, squeezing and turning is important in preventing the development of epicondylitis.
