Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many individuals who engage in repetitive arm motions. While it is often associated with tennis players, this painful ailment can impact anyone who frequently uses their arms in an overstressed manner. When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, elbow surgery may be considered. Here’s what you need to know about elbow surgery for tennis elbow.

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons in the elbow become inflamed due to overuse, resulting in pain and discomfort. Symptoms typically include:

• Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
• Difficulty gripping objects
• Weakness in the forearm
• Increased pain when performing activities like lifting or twisting

Conservative Treatments

Before considering elbow surgery, various conservative treatment options are typically explored, including:

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy to strengthen the forearm
• Applying ice to reduce inflammation
• Tennis elbow braces to lessen strain on the elbow
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief

If these treatments do not yield significant results after a reasonable period, surgery may be suggested.

Types of Elbow Surgery for Tennis Elbow

Two primary surgical options are available for treating tennis elbow:

1. Open Surgery

This traditional procedure involves making an incision over the elbow to access the damaged tendon. The surgeon will remove degenerated tissue and repair the remaining tendon. Open surgery is generally effective but may require a longer recovery time.

2. Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon uses a small camera and special instruments to perform the surgery through smaller incisions. This method often results in less tissue damage, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery period. It also tends to have less postoperative pain compared to open surgery.

Risks and Recovery from Elbow Surgery

Like any surgical procedure, elbow surgery carries risks that include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Neurological damage
• Failure to relieve symptoms

The recovery timeline varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Typically, patients can expect:

• Initial immobilization of the elbow for a few weeks
• Gradual introduction of physical therapy
• Return to normal activities in approximately 4 to 6 months

Postoperative Care

After elbow surgery, following the surgeon’s postoperative care instructions is crucial for successful recovery. This may include:

• Using ice to manage swelling
• Aspatially taking prescribed medications
• Engaging in rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and range of motion
• Avoiding activities that stress the elbow during the early recovery phase

Conclusion

While elbow surgery for tennis elbow can provide significant relief for those suffering from chronic pain, it’s important to have a thorough discussion with a healthcare professional to understand the risks, benefits, and recovery expectations. With proper treatment and rehabilitation, many patients can return to their regular activities and enjoy their favorite sports without pain.