Factors That Increase The Risk of Tennis Elbow
While anyone can develop tennis elbow, there are some factors that increase the risk. Some of the key risk factors for developing tennis elbow include:
Age
Age can be a risk factor for developing tennis elbow. The condition is more common in people over the age of 40, and it may be due to changes in the tissues and muscles that support the joint. As we age, our muscles tend to weaken, and this may contribute to an increased risk of developing tennis elbow. Additionally, the cartilage that cushions the joint may start to wear down as we get older, which can also lead to pain and inflammation. If you are over the age of 40 and experience pain or stiffness in your arm after playing tennis or other racquet sports, you should speak with your doctor about treatment options. There are a number of treatments available that can help reduce symptoms and improve function.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a known risk factor for developing tennis elbow. This is because people with diabetes are more susceptible to developing nerve damage in their hands and arms, which can lead to pain and weakness in the muscles around the elbow. In addition, people with diabetes are also more likely to have problems with their circulatory system, which can lead to inflammation and swelling in the arm. If you have diabetes and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your elbow, be sure to speak with your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of developing tennis elbow.
Smoking
Smoking is a known risk factor for developing tennis elbow. It can cause reduced blood flow to the tissues of the arm, which can lead to increased risk for developing tennis elbow. In addition, smokers are more likely to develop chronic inflammation in the tissues around the elbow joint, which can also increase the risk for developing this condition.
Arthritis
While it’s not clear exactly why people with arthritis are at a higher risk for developing tennis elbow, there are several theories. One is that the inflammation associated with arthritis can cause the tissues around the elbow to become weak and more susceptible to injury. Additionally, people with arthritis may have reduced range of motion in their elbows, which can lead to increased stress on the muscles and tendons around the joint and increase the risk for developing tennis elbow.
Using incorrect form when playing sports
When playing sports, using incorrect form can be a risk factor for developing tennis elbow. As you know, this condition is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the arm that extend and flex the wrist and hand. Activities that commonly cause tennis elbow include golf, pitching, and swimming. The use of improper form when participating in these sports can place extra stress on these tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. Symptoms of tennis elbow include tenderness and pain along the outside of the forearm, near where the tendon attaches to the bone. In severe cases, there may be weakness or numbness in the hand. By taking steps to protect your arm and using proper form when playing sports, you can help reduce your risk of developing this condition.
Using outdated equipment
One such risk factor of tennis elbow is using outdated equipment. Tennis rackets have evolved over the years, with newer models featuring different shapes and materials that can help reduce the incidence of tennis elbow. However, many players continue to use older rackets that may be less forgiving and more likely to cause injury.
Playing sports outdoors in hot weather conditions
Playing sports outdoors in hot weather conditions can increase your risk for developing tennis elbow. When it’s hot outside, you may sweat more and this can make your muscles tired and more susceptible to injury. Additionally, the high temperatures can cause the ball to bounce higher and faster than usual, which can lead to an increased risk of strains and other injuries. If you do choose to play sports outdoors in hot weather conditions, be sure to take appropriate precautions such as drinking plenty of fluids, wearing sunscreen, and staying hydrated.
Having a previous injury to the forearm
Injuries to the forearm are a common risk factor for developing tennis elbow. The injury can occur when the forearm is overextended, as can happen when playing tennis. Other activities that can cause this type of injury include painting, hammering, and several others discussed above. When the forearm muscles and tendons are overused or injured, inflammation and pain can develop in the area around the elbow.
People who have previously injured their forearm are at an increased risk for developing tennis elbow. This is because the previous injury may have caused damage to the muscles and tendons in that area, which makes them more susceptible to further injury. Physical therapy is recommended to help improve strength and flexibility in the muscles and tendons around the elbow and minimize this risk.
Playing without a warm-up
Playing without a warm-up is one of the risk factors for developing tennis elbow. When you don’t warm up, your muscles and tendons are cold and less elastic. This increases your risk for injury because your muscles and tendons are less able to absorb the shock of the tennis ball. Additionally, if you start playing tennis or other similar sports without warming up, you’re more likely to play beyond your limits, which can also lead to injury.
Using incorrect strokes
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons in your forearm are overused and become irritated or inflamed. This often happens because of incorrect strokes.
There are other related risk factors for developing tennis elbow, including using incorrect strokes, using too much weight or force when swinging the racquet, and having poor grip strength. Other risk factors include playing tennis frequently or for long periods of time, having a history of other injuries to the arm or hand, and having Elbow Tendinosis (a condition where the tendon becomes thickened and less flexible).