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TENNIS ELBOW?
Last Updated: Monday, October 08, 2007


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SORE ELBOW?  Tennis Anyone?
Playing tennis, of course is not the only way to get a sore elbow.  Shaking hands, throwing darts, shooting craps, or opening a jar can bring it on in certain people no matter what they do.  It's unfortunate but it's part of the aging process.

Doctors use cortisone injections occasionally to treat acute pain and inflammation.  But repeated injections may soften the tendon-like fibers and foster a chronic problem.

Typically, you feel pain on the outer side of your upper forearm just below the crease of your elbow.  It's due to tiny tears in tendon-like fibers that attach forearm muscles to your elbow.

Although, it's called Tennis Elbow, any activity requiring you to extend your wrist or rotate your forearm can cause the pain.

TREATMENT:  Here are self-help measures you can safely try:

REST:

Avoid the activity until the pain in your arm subsides.
SUPPORT BAND:

Use a forearm support band to transfer stress from the irritated area.  Support bands are available in most pharmacies.
SPLINT:

Apply a forearm splint when you sleep.  This can rest your muscles. (Splints also are widely available)
HEAT and ICE:

Apply heat for five to 10 minutes before using your arm.  Apply ice for five to 10 minutes after strenuous use.
ASPIRIN:

Take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory pain relievers as needed.
EXERCISES:

Do Wrist exercises to rebuild muscle strength.

  NOTE: If these measure don't relieve the pain in two weeks, visit your physician.


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