For London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur | Dr. Vishal Sahni

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that occurs when tendons in your elbow are overloaded, usually due to repetitive motions of the wrist and arm.
Despite its name, tennis players aren’t the only ones affected. People involved in professions like carpentry, painting, typing, or even frequent lifting can experience tennis elbow. Without early treatment, tennis elbow can worsen and seriously impact the ability to perform daily activities.

If you are struggling with persistent elbow pain, consulting an experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur can help you explore both nonsurgical and surgical options for Tennis Elbow tailored to your needs.

Causes and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Common Causes:

• Repetitive Motion: Activities that involve continuous wrist extension (like using a screwdriver or painting) can strain the tendon.
• Incorrect Technique: Poor technique in sports (especially racquet sports) increases the risk.
• Age Factor: It is most common in people aged 30 to 50 years.
• Trauma: Direct impact or strain can initiate microtears in the tendon.
• Occupational Risks: Jobs requiring repetitive arm movement put individuals at higher risk.

Symptoms:

• Persistent pain on the outside of the elbow.
• Tenderness when pressing the elbow.
• Weak grip strength while holding objects like coffee mugs or handshakes.
• Pain radiating from the elbow into the forearm and wrist.
• Worsening pain with activities like twisting a doorknob, lifting, or shaking hands.

Recognising these early signs is key to successful nonsurgical management.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

Almost 80-90% of cases respond well to tennis elbow nonsurgical treatments if started early.

1. Rest and Activity Modification

The first and most important step is to give your elbow rest.

• Stop or modify activities that worsen the pain.
• Use ergonomic tools and work methods.
• Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks.

Reducing strain allows natural healing to start.

2. Ice Therapy

Applying ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) on the painful area for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day helps:

• Reduce inflammation
• Control swelling
• Numb the area to ease pain

Always allow your skin to warm between ice sessions to avoid frostbite.

3. Medications

• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen are often prescribed to relieve inflammation and pain.
• Topical anti-inflammatory creams (like diclofenac gel) can also be applied directly to the elbow.

These medications manage pain but should be used under medical supervision.

4. Bracing or Splinting

Forearm straps or braces help:

• Reduce the strain on injured tendons
• Allow tendons to rest
• Provide mechanical support

Wearing a counterforce brace during activities can significantly reduce discomfort.

5. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is one of the most effective nonsurgical treatments.
A trained physiotherapist will design a personalised program including:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility.
• Strengthening exercises for forearm and grip muscles.
• Eccentric exercises where the muscle lengthens while under tension — proven to speed up tendon healing.
• Manual therapy techniques like massage and soft tissue mobilization.

Home exercise programs are also taught to ensure continuous progress.

6. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP injections involve:

• Drawing the patient’s blood
• Processing it to concentrate platelets
• Injecting it into the injured area

Platelets are rich in growth factors that promote tissue healing naturally.
PRP is especially beneficial for chronic cases that have not responded to traditional treatments.

7. Shockwave Therapy

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) sends acoustic waves to the affected tissues:

• Stimulates blood flow
• Breaks down scar tissue
• Speeds up recovery

It is a non-invasive, outpatient procedure requiring no anaesthesia.

When is Surgery Needed for Tennis Elbow?

Despite best efforts, some patients may not recover with nonsurgical treatments.
Tennis Elbow Surgery is considered when:

• Pain persists despite 6-12 months of appropriate care.
• There is difficulty performing everyday tasks like lifting bags or turning door handles.
• The quality of life is significantly impacted.
• Tendon tears or degeneration are visible on imaging tests like MRI.

Dr. Vishal Sahni evaluates each case carefully before recommending surgical intervention.

Surgical Options for Tennis Elbow

1. Open Surgery

This is the traditional method where:

• A small incision is made over the elbow.
• The damaged tendon tissue is identified and removed.
• Healthy tendon tissue is reattached to the bone.

Advantages:

• Allows direct visual inspection.
• Suitable for large or complex tendon tears.

Disadvantages:

• Slightly longer recovery.
• Small risk of infection or nerve injury.

2. Arthroscopic Surgery

This is a minimally invasive technique performed using a tiny camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments:

• Multiple small incisions instead of one large cut.
• Surgeons can view and treat the tendon precisely.

Advantages:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Quicker recovery
• Less postoperative pain
• Smaller scars

Dr. Vishal Sahni is highly skilled in both open and arthroscopic tennis elbow surgeries, ensuring the best approach for each individual.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery is crucial for the best outcomes:

• First Week: Rest with arm in a sling. Pain and swelling are managed with ice packs and medications.
• 2-4 Weeks: Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises under supervision.
• 6-8 Weeks: Start strengthening exercises.
• 3-6 Months: Gradual return to sports and heavy lifting.

Patients are carefully monitored at London Orthopaedic Clinic to ensure safe and speedy healing.

Tips for Preventing Tennis Elbow

Prevention is better than cure! Here are expert-recommended tips:

• Warm up properly before sports or activities.
• Use the right equipment — racquets, tools, etc.
• Maintain proper technique in work and sports activities.
• Strengthen and stretch the forearm muscles regularly.
• Listen to your body — avoid pushing through pain.
• Use ergonomic devices if your job involves repetitive hand tasks.

Following these can significantly reduce your risk of recurrence.

Why Choose Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur?

• Over 24 years of Orthopaedic Experience: Trusted by thousands of patients globally.
• Expertise in Sports Injuries and Elbow Conditions.
• Advanced Diagnostics and Surgical Techniques.
• Patient-centric Care: Every treatment plan is customized for individual needs.
• State-of-the-art Facility in Dhantoli, Nagpur.
• Compassionate Postoperative Support and Rehabilitation Programs.

Your journey to recovery begins with the right doctor — and Dr. Vishal Sahni is the trusted name for treatment tennis elbow care.

Call/WhatsApp: +91 95295 52938
Website: www.londonorthopaedicclinicngp.com
Address: Ground Floor, Berar House, Mehadia Square, Dhantoli, Nagpur, Maharashtra 440012

FAQs – Understanding Nonsurgical and Surgical Options For Tennis Elbow

1. What is tennis elbow, and what causes it?

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a condition where the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become inflamed or degenerated due to overuse or strain.
It is commonly caused by repetitive wrist and arm motions, improper sports techniques, or certain occupations like carpentry, plumbing, and painting that involve continuous hand movements.

2. How do I know if I have tennis elbow?

If you experience pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow, especially during gripping or lifting activities, along with weakened grip strength, you may have tennis elbow.
Consult an orthopaedic doctor like Dr. Vishal Sahni for a proper clinical evaluation and diagnosis.

3. Is tennis elbow a permanent condition?

No, tennis elbow is not usually permanent. With early diagnosis and appropriate nonsurgical treatments like rest, physiotherapy, medications, and bracing, most patients recover completely.
However, if left untreated, it may become chronic and difficult to manage.

4. Can tennis elbow heal on its own without treatment?

Mild cases might improve with simple activity modification and rest.
However, ignoring the symptoms can worsen the damage over time.
It is advisable to seek medical advice early to initiate proper treatment and prevent complications.

5. What are the best nonsurgical treatments for tennis elbow?

Nonsurgical options include:

• Rest and avoidance of aggravating activities
• Ice therapy
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Forearm braces
• Physical therapy with stretching and strengthening exercises
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections
• Shockwave therapy

Dr. Vishal Sahni provides customised nonsurgical plans based on each patient’s specific condition.

6. How effective is physiotherapy for tennis elbow?

Physiotherapy is highly effective for most patients.
It helps:

• Reduce pain
• Improve range of motion
• Strengthen the forearm muscles
• Restore normal function

A targeted rehabilitation program under expert supervision significantly accelerates recovery.

7. How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow without surgery?

Recovery can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months depending on the severity of the injury, consistency with therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Some chronic cases may require even longer timeframes.

8. When should I consider surgery for tennis elbow?

Surgery is recommended if:

• Symptoms persist beyond 6 to 12 months despite nonsurgical treatments.
• There is significant pain interfering with daily activities.
• Imaging studies show tendon tears or degeneration.

Dr. Vishal Sahni carefully evaluates every case before advising surgery.

9. What are the surgical options available for tennis elbow?

There are two main surgical options:

• Open Surgery: Removal of damaged tendons and reattachment of healthy ones through a traditional incision.
• Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive procedure using a small camera and instruments to treat the tendon with less tissue disruption.

Both methods aim to relieve pain and restore function, and are performed expertly at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur.

10. How safe is tennis elbow surgery?

Tennis elbow surgery is generally very safe when performed by experienced orthopedic surgeons like Dr. Vishal Sahni.
Risks are minimal but may include infection, nerve irritation, or stiffness — all manageable with proper postoperative care.

11. What is the recovery time after tennis elbow surgery?

• Initial healing: 1–2 weeks
• Light activities: 4–6 weeks
• Strengthening exercises: 6–8 weeks
• Full return to sports/work: 3–6 months

Each patient’s recovery plan is customised and monitored closely for the best outcomes.

12. Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?

Yes, physiotherapy is crucial after surgery to:

• Regain flexibility
• Restore strength
• Improve elbow function
• Prevent scar tissue formation

Structured rehabilitation programs under expert guidance ensure faster and safer recovery.

13. Can tennis elbow return after treatment?

Yes, recurrence is possible if:

• Proper preventive measures are not followed.
• Overuse and poor technique continue.

However, following a tailored prevention plan provided by experts like Dr. Vishal Sahni can drastically reduce the chances of recurrence.

14. Are PRP injections safe for tennis elbow treatment?

Yes, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections are considered very safe as they use your own blood components.
They accelerate healing naturally without the side effects commonly associated with steroids or surgery.

15. What activities should I avoid if I have tennis elbow?

You should avoid:

• Repetitive wrist and elbow movements
• Heavy lifting
• Tight gripping activities
• Racquet sports (temporarily)

Your doctor or physiotherapist will provide you with a specific list tailored to your condition.

16. Can diet help in healing tennis elbow?

While diet alone cannot cure tennis elbow, a nutrient-rich diet can support tissue healing.
Focus on:

• Protein for muscle repair
• Vitamin C for collagen synthesis
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation

Staying hydrated also promotes faster recovery.

17. Is tennis elbow common among non-athletes?

Absolutely.
Tennis elbow frequently affects:

• Office workers (due to excessive typing)
• Carpenters
• Chefs
• Mechanics
• Painters

It is important to recognise the symptoms early, regardless of your profession.

18. Can wearing a brace cure tennis elbow?

A brace helps reduce strain on the tendon and manage pain during healing.
However, it is only one part of the overall treatment plan and must be combined with rest, therapy, and sometimes medications for complete recovery.

19. How can I prevent tennis elbow in the future?

• Always warm up before activities.
• Strengthen your forearm muscles regularly.
• Maintain proper technique during sports and work tasks.
• Use ergonomic tools to reduce strain.
• Take frequent breaks during repetitive jobs.

Preventive strategies are particularly important after you recover to avoid recurrence.

20. Why should I consult Dr. Vishal Sahni for tennis elbow treatment?

Dr. Vishal Sahni brings over 24 years of orthopedic expertise with specialised training in treating sports injuries like tennis elbow.
At London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur, you benefit from:

• Advanced diagnostic tools
• Personalised treatment plans
• Skilled surgical options
• World-class postoperative care
  Choosing a reputed orthopaedic doctor ensures a faster, safer, and more successful recovery journey.

Final Call-to-Action

Suffering from tennis elbow? Don’t let the pain control your life.
Book your consultation today with Dr. Vishal Sahni at London Orthopaedic Clinic, Nagpur and explore the right nonsurgical or surgical solution for you!