Elbow Conditions
The elbow plays a vital role in upper limb function, allowing the bending and rotation necessary for daily tasks. Mr Adam offers expert management of a wide range of elbow problems—from tendinopathy and arthritis to nerve compression— tailored to each patient's needs.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, medically termed lateral epicondylitis or, lateral epicondylalgia, involves degeneration and micro-tearing of the tendons that attach the forearm extensor muscles to the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow (the lateral epicondyle). It is typically caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm and wrist, whether through sport, manual work, or desk-based activities.
Diagnosis
Examination findings are characteristic and allow confident diagnosis in most cases. Ultrasound or MRI may be requested to assess the degree of tendon involvement or to exclude other causes of elbow pain.
Symptoms
Pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow
Pain that radiates into the forearm
Weakness of grip, particularly making tasks such as lifting a kettle or turning a key painful
Pain when extending the wrist against resistance
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
Activity modification and relative rest
Physiotherapy: Eccentric exercise programmes and load management
Tennis elbow clasp: to reduce load through the tendon
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection: A treatment that uses your body's own blood to help promote healing. Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that play an important role in healing and tissue repair. They contain natural growth factors and proteins that can help reduce inflammation and encourage damaged tissues to heal.
Surgical Treatment: Lateral Epicondyle Release
For the proportion of patients who have failed non-surgical treatment, Mr Adam can offer surgical treatment.
This involves releasing and debriding the degenerate tendon tissue from the lateral epicondyle. Outcomes are generally excellent in appropriately selected patients.
Contact Us
07521544473
Nuffield Health York Hospital
Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
Clifton Park Hospital (Ramsay) York
Bluebeck Drive, Shipton Road, York, YO30 5RA