Does Elbow Tendonitis Require Surgery?
What is elbow Tendonitis? elbow Tendonitis, also known as Tennis Elbow or Golfer's Elbow, is a common condition in which the elbow tendon is inflamed or degenerated. The outer tendons of the elbow are affected in Tennis Elbow, while the inner tendons are affected in Golfer's Elbow. It can be caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles, which leads to strains and micro-tears in the tendons.
Elbow tendonitis can be treated with many different methods, although surgery is not always necessary. Let's dive into condition and its common treatment options!
Understanding elbow tendonitis
Symptoms of elbow tendonitis usually include:
Pain & tenderness along the outer or inner elbow side of the elbow, which can also radiate down the forearm.
Wrist extension or flexion may aggravate discomfort.
Diminished grip strength is also common.
There may also be swelling and stiffness around the joint of the elbow.
A number of factors may contribute to Elbow Tendonitis, such as repetitive motions involving the forearm and wrist, which can aggravate the condition. There are many sports that involve these motions, such as tennis, golf, and weightlifting. In addition, improper technique, inadequate warm-ups, and insufficient rest can also lead to elbow tendon strain.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Elbow Tendonitis can be managed with conservative treatments, which aim to ease symptoms and facilitate recovery without surgery.
RICE Therapy: Standing for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, this therapy provides relief by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Pain Medication Options: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used for pain management. Prescription drugs may be prescribed in more severe cases.
Ice & Heat Therapy: Ice & heat therapy can reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help restore muscle and tendon strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Corticosteroid Injections: Injections are temporarily effective in alleviating pain and inflammation.
Braces/ Straps: Can provide support while relieving strain on the affected tendons during daily activities or sports.
When Should I Consider Surgery?
Sometimes, surgical intervention becomes necessary when treating Elbow Tendonitis. Several factors impact the decision to consider surgery for Elbow Tendonitis, indicating when conservative treatment has failed.
Persistent pain that lasts for six months or longer may suggest a need for surgery when conservative approaches have failed to provide relief. Surgery may become an option if the pain or significant loss of function in the affected elbow joint severely affects daily activities such as work, sports, or simple tasks.
If the tendon is seriously damaged or torn, surgery may be needed to restore its structural integrity. Arthroscopic and Open Surgery are two common surgical methods for treating Elbow Tendonitis. In arthroscopic surgery, small incisions are made and a camera is used for visualization. In open surgery, the affected tendons are accessed and repaired through a large incision.
It is essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment of Elbow Tendonitis. When conservative treatments fail, Elbow Tendonitis surgery may be the right pain management for you.
