Tennis Elbow Treatment in Delray Beach, FL

The wrist and hand are an intricate fusion of delicate bones, muscles, and tendons that are vital to everyday tasks, from simple gestures to complex movements. However, these remarkable structures are not immune to discomfort. Wrist and hand pain, often underestimated, can be a formidable obstacle to daily life’s routines and activities.

At Expert Care Center in Delray Beach, our tennis elbow treatments focus on alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and enhancing muscle strength and flexibility to prevent future injury, adapting to each patient’s needs. Our pain management specialist, Dr. Gazelle Aram, typically starts with non-surgical methods like physical therapy and bracing, but may progress to interventions like corticosteroid injections or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) for more complex cases.

JUMP TO THIS SECTION:

What Is a Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a painful condition that develops when the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the upper arm bone become irritated or damaged. It most often occurs after repeated muscle contractions, such as gripping, lifting, or twisting, which strain the tissues over time. The injury appears at the bony bumps called epicondyles, which serve as anchor points for these muscles. When tennis elbow occurs, you may feel tenderness or aching along the outer elbow area, especially during daily tasks that require hand or wrist movement.

Tennis Elbow Symptoms

The primary symptoms of tennis elbow revolve around pain and discomfort in the elbow area, specifically:

Pain and Tenderness: Most notably on the outside  of the elbow, which can extend down the forearm.

Forearm Weakness: A noticeable weakness in the forearm, making it difficult to hold onto, grip, or lift objects.

Difficulty in Hand and Wrist Movements: Challenges in performing tasks that involve moving the hand or wrist, such as opening a jar or turning a doorknob, due to discomfort or pain.

Additional symptoms might include a burning sensation around the outside of the elbow and stiffness in the elbow joint, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. These symptoms typically develop gradually and might start with mild discomfort that increases over weeks or months without proper treatment.

Consultation & Assessment

During your consultation, Dr. Aram will evaluate tennis elbow by reviewing your medical history and discussing the activities that may have contributed to the condition. She will determine whether scar tissue present around the affected structures is contributing to your symptoms and assess the health of the extensor tendon, which is commonly involved in this type of overuse injury. A thorough physical examination helps identify tenderness, weakness, and movement limitations, allowing her to tailor a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and recovery goals.

Tennis Elbow Conservative Treatments

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of conservative care for tennis elbow, focusing on restoring strength, mobility, and healthy tendon function. Treatment typically includes stretching exercises to reduce tension in the forearm muscles and improve flexibility, along with targeted strengthening to support proper movement patterns and reduce stress on the injured tissues.

Bracing

Bracing can provide valuable support during the healing process by reducing strain on the affected tendons. An elbow brace or counterforce strap helps redistribute pressure away from the irritated area, allowing the tissues to rest while you continue with daily activities. This approach can also complement physical therapy by offering added stability as strength and function improve.

Advanced Treatments

Pain Management Interventions

Pain management interventions for tennis elbow, conducted by a pain management specialist, focus on relieving discomfort, reducing inflammation, and restoring function without immediate recourse to surgery. Our pain treatment for tennis elbow is meticulously tailored to each patient’s unique condition and may include a combination of the following approaches:

Corticosteroid injections

Anti-inflammatory medications

Nerve blocks

Trigger-point injections

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT)

ESWT is an advanced, non-invasive option that helps treat pain by stimulating the body’s natural healing response. The therapy uses controlled acoustic waves to increase blood flow, break down dysfunctional tissue fibers, and promote healthy tendon regeneration. ESWT is especially beneficial for chronic or stubborn cases where traditional methods have not provided sufficient relief, offering a pathway to improved mobility and long-term recovery.

Recovery After Tennis Elbow Treatment

Recovery after tennis elbow treatment focuses on restoring strength and mobility. Dr. Aram will guide you through modified activities to decrease stress on the affected tendon and help you avoid lifting heavy objects until your elbow is strong enough to handle regular use. Some treatments may carry minor risks, such as allergic reactions, though these are uncommon and monitored closely. Most patients improve steadily with appropriate care, but if symptoms persist, further evaluation may be needed to adjust your treatment plan. Following recommended exercises, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies can help promote healing and support long-term recovery.

Ideal Candidates for Tennis Elbow Treatment

Ideal candidates for tennis elbow treatment are individuals experiencing injured tendons in the forearm that lead to a painful condition occurring around the outer part of the elbow. These patients may struggle with gripping, lifting, or repetitive hand movements that aggravate the tendon attachments. Whether the discomfort is recent or has gradually worsened, anyone whose daily activities or work tasks are affected by this strain can benefit from a personalized evaluation and treatment plan tailored to restore function and reduce pain.

Benefits of Tennis Elbow Treatment

Our professional team works closely with patients to address pain and mobility concerns. Bracing is often incorporated into a broader care plan to help support recovery and improve daily function. This treatment offers many benefits:

Reduced elbow pain and discomfort

Improved strength and stability in the forearm

Enhanced range of motion for daily activities

Faster recovery from tendon irritation or overuse

Lower risk of chronic symptoms or reinjury

Ability to return to work, sports, and hobbies with greater comfort

Cost of Tennis Elbow Treatment in Delray Beach, FL

Considering various possible interventions, from initial consultations to advanced treatments, the overall cost range for tennis elbow treatment ranges from $100 to $2,500. This estimate aims to cover the full spectrum of treatment options, accommodating various individual circumstances and needs.

It is essential to book an appointment with our pain management specialist to explore these treatment options and develop a plan specifically for your needs. Dr. Aram will thoroughly assess your case and discuss the most effective treatment strategies.

Receive Advanced Treatments for Tennis Elbow at Expert Care Center

At Expert Care Center, under the professional guidance of Gazelle Aram, MD, we prioritize the most advanced pain management techniques available. Dr. Aram’s comprehensive training and substantial experience in the field ensure that the care you receive is not only at the cutting edge of medical practice but also deeply informed. Our approach  to pain management is tailored specifically to each patient’s unique circumstances, creating personalized treatment plans that address your symptoms and lifestyle. We are dedicated to minimally invasive treatments, utilizing the latest innovations in pain management to provide effective surgical alternatives that minimize recovery time and maximize results.

If you’re struggling with tennis elbow pain, don’t wait longer to seek the relief you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Gazelle Aram, MD, at Expert Care Center. Experience the difference that personalized, cutting-edge pain management can make in your life. Together, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, helping you return to your favorite activities comfortably and confidently.

At Expert Care Center, under the professional guidance of Gazelle Aram, MD, we prioritize the most advanced pain management techniques available. Dr. Aram’s comprehensive training and substantial experience in the field ensure that the care you receive is not only at the cutting edge of medical practice but also deeply informed. Our approach  to pain management is tailored specifically to each patient’s unique circumstances, creating personalized treatment plans that address your symptoms and lifestyle. We are dedicated to minimally invasive treatments, utilizing the latest innovations in pain management to provide effective surgical alternatives that minimize recovery time and maximize results.

Does tennis elbow affect only tennis players?

This elbow condition (lateral epicondylitis) does not affect just athletes – it can develop in anyone who frequently uses their forearm muscles in repetitive ways. While the backhand stroke in tennis is a well-known cause, the condition is also common in people playing musical instruments, performing manual work, or engaging in other activities that require repetitive motion and arm movement.

What is the difference between tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?

Tennis elbow affects the outer part of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow occurs on the inner side. Both conditions involve injured tissues, but the source of strain differs based on muscle use and movement patterns. In some cases, either condition may also result from direct trauma to the elbow.

Can conservative treatments help avoid tennis elbow surgery?

Yes, many patients improve substantially with non-surgical options, such as physical therapy, bracing, rest, and steroid injections. These approaches aim to reduce pain, restore strength, and promote healing, often eliminating the need for surgery.

What should I do if the symptoms of tennis elbow worsen every week?

You should seek medical attention if you’re experiencing gradually worsening pain, as early evaluation helps prevent further tissue damage. If symptoms persist or if the recommended conservative treatment options fail, your specialist may discuss surgical alternatives. Because traditional surgery involves working near the two forearm bones, it is considered major surgery, and understanding your options is essential before proceeding.

What is lateral epicondyle release surgery?

Lateral epicondyle release is a surgical procedure designed to relieve tension on the damaged tendon and remove unhealthy tissue. Modern techniques vary, and endoscopic surgery involves using small incisions and a camera to perform the repair with minimal disruption. This procedure is typically performed under regional or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Relieve Your Elbow Pain Today!

If you’re struggling with discomfort, our team specializes in relieving tennis elbow pain and helping patients regain strength and mobility. In order to ensure effective tennis elbow treatment, Delray Beach residents can schedule a comprehensive evaluation to address not only tendon irritation but also complications like bone spurs that may contribute to ongoing pain. Don’t wait – take the first step toward recovery and improved arm function today.