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What is a Tennis Elbow?

Published in Medical Condition 1 min read

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by swelling of the tendons that bend your wrist backward away from your palm.

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Here's a breakdown:

  • Tendons: These are tough cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones.
  • Swelling: In tennis elbow, these tendons become inflamed.
  • Wrist Movement: The affected tendons are responsible for bending your wrist backward, away from your palm.

The tendon most commonly affected is called the extensor carpi radialis brevis.

Aspect Description
Definition Swelling of tendons that bend the wrist backward.
Location Outside of the elbow
Affected Area Tendons connecting muscles to the bone
Common Tendon Extensor carpi radialis brevis

Tennis elbow isn't exclusive to tennis players; it can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions involving the wrist and arm. It is a common overuse injury.

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