Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a condition that develops when elbow tendons are overworked. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players and other athletes. Anyone who performs repetitive motions using their arm, wrist, or hand is susceptible to tennis elbow. Our PRP therapy Los Angeles specialists have identified the leading causes of tennis elbow and the treatment options available.
Causes
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become inflamed or damaged. Repetitive gripping and twisting of the wrist and forearm will cause pain along the elbow’s muscles and tendons.
Common Causes Include:
- Sports activities (tennis, squash, racquetball, etc.)
- Occupational activities (repetitive use of a computer mouse or keyboard, hammering, painting, manual labor, etc.)
- Age (more common in people aged 30-50)
Treatments
There are various treatments available that our doctor in Los Angeles may recommend for tennis elbow. Options range from self-care techniques to surgical procedures.
Rest
Avoiding activities that cause pain can help speed up the healing process. Patients can use a brace or splint to limit movement.
Ice/Heat Therapy
Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Afterward, apply warm compresses to help improve blood flow and promote healing.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and tendons in the affected area, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Platelets and plasma play essential roles in cellular regeneration. Through this process, our PRP therapy Los Angeles experts will draw a blood sample from the patient, isolate the platelets and plasma, and inject a concentrated dose of these healing components into pain sites. PRP injections can effectively reduce tennis elbow-related pain and inflammation and promote a faster recovery.
Surgery
Surgery is usually a last resort for tennis elbow, used only when [non-invasive](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002269.htm#:~:text=Noninvasive procedures do not involve,%2C ECG%2C and Holter monitoring.) treatments fail to alleviate symptoms. An incision is made in the elbow to access the tendon and remove any damaged tissue. The procedure will usually require anesthesia and may include a short hospital stay.
Seek Our Leading PRP Therapy Los Angeles Treatments
With sufficient rest and non-invasive therapies, patients can alleviate their tennis elbow pain. For guidance on the best treatment options, it’s best to seek advice from our team of PRP therapy Los Angeles experts at Interventional Pain Doctors as soon as possible. This will help prevent the injury from worsening and promote a speedy recovery. Visit our website to learn more about our leading, non-invasive pain management techniques.