These are frequently the result of repetitive overuse of the shoulder. The most common symptoms are pain over the outside of the arm and sometimes can radiate down to the hand. The pain is aggravated by overhead activities as well as lifting away from the body. Often times patients cannot sleep on the affected shoulder. Initial treatment includes ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications if medically indicated.
Cortisone shots are often effective at relieving the acute inflammation and pain.
If conservative measures fail, your physician may order a test called an MRI which can help determine whether or not a tear is present. If the pain persists and is severely affecting the patient's lifestyle, surgery may be necessary to bring the shoulder back to health. Tennis elbow is a common degenerative condition of the extensor tendons of the forearm which originate from the outside of the elbow. The most common complaints are pain and weakness on the outside of the elbow with lifting or holding objects. Patients who have tennis elbow often times have never played tennis.