Dr. Steven Rueda is one of the most sought after doctors for tennis elbow treatment in Palm Beach. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an elbow condition affecting the tendon origins in the outer elbow. It receives the name “tennis elbow” since it is frequently seen in tennis players.
WHAT CAUSES TENNIS ELBOW?
The extensor carpi radialis brevis (one of the muscles in the back of the forearm) has a tendon that originates in the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. The role of this muscle is to help extend the wrist. In tennis elbow, this tendinous origin undergoes degeneration leading to weakening and inflammation. As a result, patients experience pain at the location of the tendon origin with activities that cause wrist extension.
TENNIS ELBOW PROCEDURE
Surgery is very effective at improving pain caused by tendon degeneration in tennis elbow. The procedure removes the diseased tendon origin that is causing the symptoms thereby relieving pain.
Incisions
A single incision centered on the outside elbow is used; this is Usually 5-6cms in length
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Patients with classic history, symptoms, and exam who have failed conservative treatment are good candidates for the procedure. Most patient’s get cured without the need for surgery, so Dr. Rueda advises to wait at least 6-9 months prior to discussing any intervention.
Complications are very rare in tennis elbow surgery; it is a very safe procedure. Some of the uncommon risks include infection and bleeding of the surgical site. There are also other major complications that are very unlikely including persistent pain.