Shocking News: Tennis Elbow Due to… See Why
In a surprising twist, the often-avoided ailment known as tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, has been linked to causes that go far beyond the expected. Most of us associate tennis elbow with sports, specifically tennis, where repetitive strain on the elbow from swinging a racket can cause inflammation in the tendons. However, recent studies and expert analyses suggest that this condition is not exclusive to athletes — and the cause of tennis elbow may be far more widespread than we thought.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow refers to the pain and discomfort that originates on the outer part of the elbow due to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. This condition is typically caused by repetitive motion, which results in small tears in the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outer elbow. The pain is often exacerbated with movements like gripping, twisting, or lifting.
Beyond Tennis: Surprising Culprits
While it’s true that tennis players, especially those with improper form, are at high risk for developing this condition, tennis elbow has been increasingly found in individuals who do not play tennis or any sport at all. In fact, experts are now recognizing some unexpected causes of tennis elbow that have nothing to do with a racket.
1. Office Workers and Computer Users
In today’s digital world, many office workers and computer users spend hours at a time typing or using a mouse. These repetitive actions, especially when done improperly (e.g., using poor ergonomics or awkward wrist positioning), can put undue stress on the elbow tendons. The muscle groups engaged during typing and clicking are the same ones affected by tennis elbow. As more people spend long hours working at desks, this non-sport-related cause of tennis elbow is gaining attention.
2. DIY and Home Improvement Enthusiasts
Those who enjoy DIY projects or home improvements may be shocked to learn that tennis elbow is a common injury among weekend warriors. Tasks such as painting, gardening, and using hand tools like hammers or screwdrivers can place repetitive strain on the elbow. Whether it’s a few hours spent in the garden or a weekend of assembling furniture, these actions can lead to the development of tennis elbow if done frequently.
3. Physically Demanding Jobs
People in physically demanding professions — such as construction workers, mechanics, and factory workers — are often at a higher risk of developing tennis elbow. The repetitive motions involved in lifting heavy objects, tightening screws, or using power tools all put strain on the forearm muscles, leading to tendon wear and tear. Even professions like plumbing, where twisting pipes or using wrenches is common, can lead to this condition.
4. Technology: Video Games and Smartphones
With the rise of mobile gaming and smartphone usage, more people are now engaging in repetitive finger and wrist movements for hours on end. While it may seem odd, these motions can create tension in the elbow joints and lead to tennis elbow. As video game controllers often require players to grasp and maneuver them for prolonged periods, they too can contribute to strain on the elbow.
Why Is Tennis Elbow More Common Now?
The increasing number of non-athletic tennis elbow cases may be due to several factors. Our daily routines are more physically demanding than ever, even for those who don’t engage in intense sports activities. With a greater focus on sedentary lifestyles, desk jobs, and the overuse of technology, people are performing repetitive motions in a range of activities — not just sports.
Furthermore, the pandemic accelerated the rise in remote working, home improvement projects, and the use of personal electronics, all of which contribute to overuse injuries like tennis elbow. The surge in DIY activities during lockdowns, coupled with the rise in technology-related habits, made tennis elbow more common among people who otherwise wouldn’t be expected to experience it.
Early Signs and Symptoms
The key to preventing or minimizing the impact of tennis elbow is recognizing the symptoms early. Common signs include:
Pain or tenderness on the outside of the elbow, especially when gripping or lifting objects
Weakness in the forearm
Swelling or inflammation around the elbow joint
Pain that radiates from the elbow down to the forearm or wrist
Difficulty with simple tasks such as shaking hands or turning a doorknob
If you start experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to take action right away by resting the affected arm, applying ice, and avoiding activities that cause discomfort. Over time, tennis elbow can worsen if left untreated.
Prevention and Treatment
If you’re concerned about tennis elbow, there are several ways to reduce your risk and manage the condition. Some preventive measures include:
Correct Posture and Ergonomics: Whether you’re at the office or doing home repairs, make sure to maintain proper posture and ergonomics. Adjust your workstation to reduce strain on your elbow, and take breaks to rest your muscles.
Strengthening Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises that target the forearm muscles can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the tendons.
Use Proper Technique: For athletes and DIY enthusiasts, make sure you are using the proper techniques for your sport or activities to reduce stress on your elbow.
Medical Treatment: In more severe cases, treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or even injections may be required to promote healing. Surgery is rare but may be considered if the condition is chronic and unresponsive to other treatments.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow is no longer just a concern for athletes. As modern work, lifestyle habits, and hobbies increasingly involve repetitive motions, more people are developing this painful condition. Whether you’re an office worker, a DIY enthusiast, or a gamer, it’s important to recognize the early signs of tennis elbow and take steps to prevent it.
So, the next time you’re reaching for your mouse, gripping your phone, or picking up a paintbrush, be mindful of the strain you’re putting on your tendons. Tennis elbow may have once been confined to tennis courts, but now it could be lurking in everyday activities.
