Everyone is likely to experience pain at some point. Tennis elbow is one of the common problems that can aggravate your elbow’s pain. The common conditions triggering Houston tennis elbow include swimming, golfing, and tennis, which are more popular. Fortunately, a provider can offer different surgical and nonsurgical treatment options to address the issue completely. Therefore, seeing a doctor is recommended, although some people are unaware of when to see one. Below are some telltale signs you should report your tennis elbow to a doctor.
Severe pain When Rotating Your Elbow
The elbow is prone to injuries due to its several moving parts. Besides, it is common to knock or bang the elbow in several instances. As a result, a dull ache resulting from an elbow knock on the door is common. However, experiencing pain when you move your arm is unpopular. There is no law about how long you should wait or when to consult a specialist concerning your elbow pain. If your pain persists with time, you should report it to a doctor immediately.
Elbow Pain That Does Not Get Better with Ice and Rest Therapy
Tennis is easy to address with rest and ice therapy. Rest is the first step toward recovery for your arm for some weeks. Furthermore, ice can help to lessen inflammation and alleviate pain. Even though these options are vital, there are instances where they are ineffective, making it compulsory for more complex medical interventions. Depending on the root of your tennis elbow, your healthcare provider can recommend physical therapy, elbow surgery, or steroid injections.
Complexity Holding or Gripping Items in the Hand
Tennis elbow can impair your ability to grip or hold items. For instance, tennis players may struggle to hold the racket tightly. On the other hand, a carpenter might be unable to move the drill or use the hammer due to the pain in the elbow. In these cases, seeing a provider for medical checkups is essential. Failure to receive timely treatment can significantly affect your ability to engage in activities you like.
Severe Bruising or Swelling on the Elbow Joint
Occasionally, bruising near your elbow indicates minor injury after a fall. Besides, elbow contusions can cause short-term swelling, which resolves naturally after some time. Alternatively, minor bruising can improve with ice and rest therapy. However, if you notice persistent and severe swelling or bruising, you should seek medical help immediately. Swelling may make it hard to see the change, but a doctor can diagnose if the tennis elbow is responsible for the swelling and bruising.
Bulge or Lump in the Elbow
If your muscles in the forearm become strained, inflammation and swelling can arise near the bony lump on the outer side of the elbow. As a result, the swelling and inflammation can fuel the formation of a lump. If left undiagnosed and untreated, lumps or bulges can interfere with the movement of your joint. However, reporting this symptom to your healthcare specialist allows them to identify the condition that warrants the best treatment.
Overall, tennis elbow does not cause durable and long-term complications. However, the swelling, bruising, and pain can impact your grip, making it hard to grasp objects and carry out other day-to-day activities. You can start by trying various home remedies, including ice and rest, but you should call your provider if the symptoms persist. Reporting these symptoms to a physician early is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. However, the most vital thing is prevention rather than cure. Your specialist can suggest ways to avoid overuse that causes tennis elbow.