The injury is associated with tennis playing. The incidence is 9 out of 10,000 people. Rest the elbow when flexion and extension is painful. The diagnosis is made by clinical signs and symptoms, since X-rays are usually normal. Tenderness over the elbow can be present.
Treatment is aimed at pain relief and reducing inflammation.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, local injection of cortisone and a local anesthetic into the affected area, immobilization of the forearm and elbow with a splint for 2 to 3 weeks, heat therapy, and physical therapy are all treatments which may improve the symptoms. To prevent the recurrence of the injury, a splint may be worn during aggravating activities, or the activities may need to be modified. Surgical release of the tendon at the elbow is rarely indicated to relieve the pain. The probable outcome is good with treatment. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if this is the first time you have had these symptoms, or if home treatment does not relieve the symptoms.