What Happens If Tennis Elbow Goes Untreated?
What Happens If Tennis Elbow Goes Untreated?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is the painful weakening of the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to your bones. This can result when the elbow is worked too hard by repeating motions. Tennis elbow is very common and only needs minor treatment if detected early. At Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy, we can diagnose tennis elbow and treat it with physical therapy in Northville NY.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons in your forearm may get small tears from repeated motions. It results in stress and pain in your arm when you lift or grip things. Treatment, such as physical therapy in Northville NY, can reduce pain, but more intense treatment methods will be required if tennis elbow goes untreated. Some of the symptoms associated with tennis elbow include:
- Difficulty moving the arm
- A lump or bulge in the arm
- Pain or difficulty moving your arm
- Redness or swelling of the elbow
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Any forceful, repetitive motion that pulls on the tendon can cause tennis elbow. That is why it is essential to keep your arms and wrists strong and flexible. Racquet sports can cause tennis elbow, such as tennis, racquetball, or squash. Some examples of other jobs or activities that can cause tennis elbow include:
- Using a chainsaw
- Painting
- Carpentry
- Playing an instrument
- Plumbing
- Working on an assembly line
Tennis Elbow Treatment
As soon as tennis elbow is diagnosed, you should stop physical activity and certain movements to let your arm rest. Our specialist may then recommend the following treatment methods:
- Physical therapy in Northville NY
- Over-the-counter medication
- Corticosteroid medication
- A splint or brace
- Ultrasound
Tennis elbow will go away when treatment methods are followed; however, if tennis elbow goes untreated, the condition will worsen, and it may require surgery.
Contact Our Office
Tennis elbow presents itself in about 3% of people but can be easily treated with physical therapy in Northville NY. At Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy, we recommend immediately tackling your tennis elbow and its symptoms to avoid further damage. Contact our team to treat your tennis elbow before it’s too late.