Tennis Elbow Treatment in Singapore
Tennis elbow, a common condition affecting the outer elbow, can cause significant pain and hinder daily activities. If you’re experiencing persistent tennis elbow symptoms, seeking early diagnosis and treatment is advisable for optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications.
This condition is often caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the muscles and tendons on the outside part of the elbow. Early intervention and professional management can help you regain pain-free movement and return to your favourite activities.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterised by pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. It typically occurs due to inflammation and/or damage to the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow. Some of the common causes include:
- Repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as those involved in tennis, racquetball, or other sports, or simply household activities like mopping and cooking.
- Occupational activities that involve repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting, such as carpentry, plumbing, or typing.
- Simply wear-and-tear of the tendon itself can start giving rise to tennis elbow symptoms.
Additionally, the following factors may increase the risk of tennis elbow:
- Age: Tennis elbow is most common in adults aged 30 to 60.
- Improper technique: Improper techniques in sports or activities.
Signs and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Recognising the signs and seeking timely tennis elbow treatment in Singapore may help prevent further complications that can arise from leaving the condition untreated. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning sensation: Felt on the outer side of the elbow, often radiating down the forearm.
- Weak grip strength: Difficulty gripping objects firmly.
- Pain worsening with activity: Pain increases with activities that involve wrist or arm movements, such as lifting, gripping, or turning a doorknob.
- Stiffness: Stiffness or tenderness around the elbow joint.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a tennis elbow doctor in Singapore for proper evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow
During the diagnosis, the doctor may use various methods to evaluate your condition. This may include:
Clinical examination:
The doctor will assess your elbow’s range of motion, tenderness, and pain with specific movements.
Imaging tests:
In some cases, imaging tests may be recommended to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of tendon damage.
- X-rays: Can help rule out arthritis or bone spurs.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Can provide detailed images of the tendons and muscles to assess the extent of the tissue damage or injury.
Recovery and Rehabilitation for Tennis Elbow
The recovery timeline for tennis elbow may vary depending on the severity of your condition and the chosen treatment approach. Most people may experience significant improvement within a few weeks to months with non-surgical treatment. Meanwhile, recovery from surgery may take two to three months, but minimally invasive procedures may shorten the recovery period.
In most cases, physiotherapy can help with tennis elbow recovery in Singapore. It can help you regain strength, flexibility, and full function of your arm. The physiotherapist will guide you through a progressive exercise programme and help you gradually return to your desired activities.
To prevent recurring injuries, consider the following:
Ergonomic adjustments:
Modify your workplace or activities to reduce strain on your elbow. This includes making sure the elbow is well-rested during activities such as typing.
Strengthening exercises:
Continue with strengthening exercises to maintain muscle support and prevent recurrence.
Proper technique:
Learn and practice proper techniques for sports and activities to avoid overloading your elbow.
Choosing the Right Specialist for Tennis Elbow
When seeking tennis elbow treatment in Singapore, choosing the right specialist is crucial for optimal outcomes. Consider the following factors:
Experience:
Look for a specialist with extensive experience in treating tennis elbow.
Treatment options:
Choose a specialist who offers a comprehensive range of treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical.
Personalised care:
Ensure the specialist takes the time to understand your individual needs and develop a recommended treatment plan.
If you’re looking for a trusted orthopaedic clinic, consider Centurion Orthopaedic Centre. We have a team of dedicated and experienced doctors who are committed to providing comprehensive and personalised care. Explore our range of treatment options, from non-surgical methods to surgical procedures, using industry-leading facilities and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow
What causes tennis elbow, and how is it different from golfer’s elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons that extend your wrist, resulting in pain in the outer elbow. Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the tendons that flex your wrist, causing pain on the inner elbow.
Can a tennis elbow heal without surgery?
Yes, in many cases. Non-surgical treatments like rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physiotherapy, and injections are often helpful in managing pain and promoting healing. Surgery is typically considered only when these treatments fail or for severe cases with tendon damage.
How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your condition and the chosen treatment approach. With non-surgical treatment, most people may experience significant improvement within a few weeks to a few months. Recovery from surgery may take two to three months.
Is tennis elbow treatment covered by insurance or Medisave?
Coverage for tennis elbow treatment depends on your specific insurance policy and the type of treatment received. Many insurance plans may cover some of the costs associated with consultations, physiotherapy, and also surgery. Medisave may also be used for specific surgical procedures. Our clinic will be able to help you check on the coverage you have for treatment.