What Is Tennis Elbow?
The forearm muscles attach to the outer side of the elbow by way of a short tendon. Usually the weakest point of the tendon is where it transitions its fibers to attach to the bone or the transition from muscle fibers to tendon fibers. Well, this is the same for “tennis elbow”. The tendon fibers get micro tears, followed by swelling, which is the body’s way of getting the damaged parts out and getting into the area what it needs to repair it. It lays down micro scar tissue, which is the tissue that it uses to repair the damaged area. This micro scar tissue is not as flexible, so it will tear easier, which leads to a cycle of no return unless changes are made with physical therapy to get the fibers to heal healthier and more flexible.
With excessive use, lack of strength from the shoulder, lack of sufficient rest, and poor swing mechanics it is possible cause this problem. Many times a person doesn’t “warm up” properly. Also, a tennis player should gradually work up to playing several times a week. A quick change from zero times a week in the off season to 3 times a week of playing will often bring it on.
