Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common elbow injuries treated by orthopedic surgeons. Despite the name, this painful condition does not just affect tennis players. Many patients in Dawsonville who have never picked up a racket experience severe pain on the outside of the elbow due to repetitive motion, overuse injuries, or even after a fall or car accident. At Specialty Orthopaedics in Dawsonville, Dr. Thomas Neustein specializes in both surgical and non-surgical treatment options to relieve pain and restore function to the elbow joint.
Understanding Tennis Elbow and Elbow Anatomy
The elbow joint is a hinge that connects three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (the forearm bones). Ligaments and tendons attach muscles of the forearm to these bones, allowing smooth movement of the arm, wrist, and hand. Tennis elbow develops when the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the outer side of the elbow become inflamed or damaged due to repetitive stress. Overuse injuries lead to microtears in the tendon, limiting blood flow and slowing the healing process.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Patients typically report pain on the outside of the elbow that may radiate down the forearm or into the wrist. Everyday tasks such as turning a doorknob, gripping a cup, or shaking hands can trigger sharp pain. Other symptoms include:
- Tenderness on the outer elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Swelling or stiffness
- Pain that worsens with lifting or twisting movements
- Discomfort that can extend from the elbow to the hand and wrist
Some patients also experience numbness or tingling, which may indicate related issues such as cubital tunnel syndrome or nerve irritation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Tennis elbow is most often the result of repetitive motion and overuse. While athletes who play tennis or other racquet sports are at risk, many cases occur in workers who use their hands and arms extensively. Carpenters, mechanics, painters, and office workers in Dawsonville often seek treatment for tennis elbow after years of strain on the forearm tendons. Risk factors include:
- Repetitive wrist and forearm motions
- Overuse of forearm muscles without proper rest
- Direct trauma from a fall or car accident
- Previous elbow injuries such as fractures, dislocation, or bone spurs
- Inadequate blood supply to the affected tendon
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow in Dawsonville
Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Dr. Neustein will evaluate the elbow joint, forearm muscles, and hand and wrist movement. X-rays taken in the office today may help rule out fractures, arthritis, or other common elbow injuries. In some cases, MRI or ultrasound imaging is used to assess scar tissue, tendon damage, or soft tissue inflammation.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
The majority of patients improve with conservative treatment options that focus on relieving pain and promoting the healing process. These include:
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms while allowing gradual return to motion.
- Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises that improve blood flow, reduce stress on the tendons, and restore mobility to the elbow joint.
- Bracing: Wrist or forearm braces to offload pressure on the tendon.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Steroid injections: Corticosteroid shots may temporarily reduce inflammation in severe cases.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): An advanced treatment option that uses the patient’s own blood supply to stimulate healing in the tendon.
When Surgical Intervention Is Needed
If non-surgical care does not provide relief after six to twelve months, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgery is a last resort, but it can be highly effective in carefully selected patients. Dr. Neustein performs procedures that remove diseased tissue, release pressure on the tendon, and improve blood flow to the affected area.
What to Expect from Surgery
The surgical procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Using small incisions, the damaged portion of the tendon is removed, scar tissue is cleared, and healthy tendon is reattached to bone. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques are used to speed up the recovery process.
Recovery After Surgery
The recovery process involves rest, gradual rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Patients can expect:
- Immobilization of the elbow initially
- Gentle exercises to restore motion
- Progressive strengthening of the forearm muscles
- Return to light activities within weeks and full recovery over several months
While healing times vary, most patients return to work and sports without lingering pain.
Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow
It is important to distinguish tennis elbow from golfer’s elbow, another painful condition that affects the inner side of the elbow. While both involve tendon inflammation, golfer’s elbow is caused by stress on different muscles and requires a slightly different treatment approach. Dr. Neustein regularly treats both conditions in patients from Dawsonville and surrounding areas such as Johns Creek.
Everyday Life After Treatment
With proper treatment, patients regain function of the elbow joint and can return to work, hobbies, and sports. Exercises that strengthen the forearm, combined with proper technique and rest, help prevent recurrence. Dr. Neustein emphasizes a personalized treatment plan for each patient, ensuring long-term recovery and preventing future overuse injuries.
Other Conditions We Treat
In addition to tennis elbow, Specialty Orthopaedics in Dawsonville provides care for a wide range of elbow injuries and upper extremity conditions, including:
- Elbow dislocation
- Cubital tunnel syndrome
- Fractures of the humerus, radius, or ulna
- Joint replacement for severe arthritis
- Soft tissue injuries of the arm, wrist, and hand
- Scar tissue complications from previous injuries
Why Choose Dr. Neustein for Tennis Elbow Treatment in Dawsonville
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. With fellowship training and years of experience, he provides Dawsonville patients with advanced treatment options ranging from conservative therapy to surgical procedures. Patients choose Specialty Orthopaedics because of personalized care, same-day appointments, and a commitment to restoring function and relieving pain.
Schedule Your Appointment in Dawsonville
If you are struggling with elbow pain or suspect you may have tennis elbow, do not wait until symptoms worsen. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Neustein today to begin a tailored treatment plan designed to relieve pain, restore motion, and get you back to the activities you love.
