The "Tennis Elbow" syndrome is a characteristic condition for people who perform repetitive elbow movements. This leads to regular micro-trauma of the tendons that extend the fingers. The condition affects tennis players, pianists, masons, or individuals exposed to systematic harmful occupational factors.
Causes
The main cause of "tennis elbow" development is sports or other physical activity. The connective tissues are under constant and significant tension, causing inflammation and swelling of the wrist extensor tendons. Additionally, any diseases associated with metabolic disorders of the connective tissues in the human body can provoke the development of the condition. These include tonsillitis, cholecystitis, and dental caries – they worsen the saturation level of collagen fibers in the tendons.
Symptoms of "Tennis Elbow" Syndrome
The disease is based on degenerative pathology of the elbow tendons with inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues. Patients experience pain in the lateral area of the elbow. The pain may radiate throughout the arm, the elbow, and extend to the middle finger. Pain intensifies with arm tension and corresponding extension movements.
Diagnosis of "Tennis Elbow" Syndrome in Israel
To determine the diagnosis, a doctor in Israel conducts a primary examination of the patient and performs functional tests of the elbow. Subsequently, the patient may be referred for an X-ray, ultrasound (to determine the size and location of inflammatory processes), or MRI (which provides the most informative picture of the condition of the soft tissues).
Treatment of "Tennis Elbow" Syndrome in Israel
Treatment in Israel for "tennis elbow" aims to help the athlete's muscles adapt to existing overloads. First and foremost, the doctor should limit the load on the elbow and prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. In severe cases, steroid injections are administered to the area of greatest pain concentration. Additionally, treatment and rehabilitation involve physiotherapy, alternating massage and cryomassage, muscle stretching, specialized strength training, and modifying technical factors affecting the elbow tendon.
Prevention
Preventive measures to avert the development of the condition include proper warm-up before physical activity, technical optimization of loads, strength training, combating infections, massage, sauna, and regular vitamin intake.