Tennis elbow, known medically as lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects not only tennis players but anyone who engages in repetitive arm movements. This condition causes pain and discomfort on the outer side of the elbow, often limiting one’s ability to perform daily tasks or enjoy physical activities. Cleveland Clinic states that in general, tennis elbow doesn’t cause serious, long-term problems.

Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking treatments for tennis elbow with the international hospitals and facilitators for affordable treatments.

In this article, we will delve into the diagnosis and treatment of tennis elbow and discuss the benefits of medical tourism in India, Malaysia, and Singapore for accessing effective treatments.

Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow

The diagnosis of tennis elbow typically begins with a detailed medical history and a physical examination.

• Imaging Studies: X-rays may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of elbow pain, such as fractures or arthritis. In most cases, tennis elbow does not show up on X-rays, but this step helps confirm the diagnosis by excluding other conditions.

• Diagnostic Ultrasound or MRI: These imaging techniques can visualize soft tissues like tendons and are more sensitive to detecting damage to the tendons and muscles around the elbow.

Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

The management of tennis elbow is generally focused on reducing pain and promoting healing. Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms is often the initial step. Rest allows the injured tendons to heal naturally.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapists can prescribe exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility.

• Orthotic Devices: Wearing a brace or splint that provides support to the affected arm can help reduce strain on the tendons.

• Medications: Medicines are prescribed to treat the tennis elbow.

• Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the affected area can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting patient’s blood platelets into the injured area. It aims to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): ESWT uses shockwaves to stimulate blood flow and promote healing in the affected tendons.

• Surgical Intervention: When conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options, such as tendon release or debridement, may be considered to remove damaged tissue or reattach tendons. Covenant Health states that tennis elbow surgery is considered successful in 80% to 90% of patients.

Medical Tourism for Tennis Elbow

India, Malaysia, and Singapore are renowned destinations for medical tourists seeking treatment for conditions like tennis elbow. These countries are known for providing high-quality healthcare services at a fraction of the cost of Western countries.

These countries boast state-of-the-art healthcare facilities equipped with advanced technology and highly skilled medical professionals specializing in orthopedic treatments.

Medical tourism companies like Medditour provide opportunities for patients seeking treatments for tennis elbow to combine their treatments with vacation.

In conclusion, tennis elbow can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life due to the pain and discomfort it causes. Medical tourism in India, Malaysia, and Singapore offers an opportunity for individuals seeking cost-effective and high-quality care for tennis elbow.