At Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics we see a lot of “tennis elbow” cases that have not responded to traditional treatment methods. The classic symptoms are sharp pain around the lateral portion of the elbow with use- particularly grabbing, lifting, holding, carrying or pulling. The pain can be so severe, daily activities such as holding a coffee mug or opening a door become painful and difficult.

Tennis elbow is a general term for lateral epicondylitis, which means inflammation of the tendons that attach on the lateral elbow. The typical treatment recommendations in recent years have been rest, ice, braces and anti-inflammatory medication; all of which have been met with adequate results.

So, what if you have tried the traditional approach of reducing inflammation, but you still have the same pain?

The answer is usually simple. You likely were misdiagnosed. A more accurate term for your case is likely lateral epicondylosis (NOT lateral epicondylitis). Lateral epicondylosis involves degeneration, microtearing and cell death, NOT inflammation. In fact, epicondylosis and epicondylitis are virtually opposite of one another and need to be treated entirely differently. Without proper diagnosis, your chance of proper treatment is extremely low.

With lateral epicondylosis (degeneration), the tissue literally breaks down as a result of one or more factors: repetitive use, sustained tension, prior acute injury, lack of flexibility and decreased circulation to the tissues. Circulation must be improved, the loading mechanism must be removed and healing must begin. Dr. Hall can help you on the road to recovery, but first, you need an evaluation and some assessment of the specific problem to properly diagnose it.

New, healthy tissue must be stimulated and the tensile strength of the tissue must be increased. We use several soft tissue techniques to reduce scar tissue, normalize load and increase circulation-all of which begin to get you out of pain. Additionally we perform specific exercises and stretches to restore adequate strength to the tissue and minimize load to the tissue.

Effective tennis elbow treatment can only be administered after a proper diagnosis. If we determine you suffer from lateral epicondylosis, rather than one of the other potential diagnoses, we have the tools (pun intended) to help you get on the path to recovery and eliminate the nagging symptoms you’re experiencing.

Call today and let’s get you on the road to recovery right away! 

423-499-0003.