Factors that increase the risk of tennis elbow
Tennis elbow can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk. Tennis elbow can be caused by a number of factors.
Age
Tennis elbow can be caused by age. It is more common among people older than 40. This may be because of changes in the muscles and tissues that support the joint. Tennis elbow is more common in older people, as our muscles weaken with age. As we age, the cartilage cushioning the joint can start to wear out, causing pain and inflammation. You should consult your doctor if you have pain or stiffness after playing tennis, or any other racquet sport. Treatments are available to reduce symptoms and improve functionality.
Diabetes
Tennis elbow is associated with diabetes. Diabetes can cause nerve damage to the hands and arms of people who have diabetes, resulting in pain and weakness around the elbow. Diabetes can also lead to problems with the circulatory system. This can cause swelling and inflammation in the arm. Speak to your doctor if you are diabetic and experiencing elbow pain or discomfort.
Smoking
Tennis elbow is known to be a risk due to smoking. Smoking can reduce blood flow in the arm tissues, increasing the risk of developing tennis elbow. Smokers are also more prone to chronic inflammation of the tissues surrounding the elbow joint. This can increase the likelihood for this condition.
Arthritis
There are several theories as to why people with arthritis have a greater risk of developing tennis elbow. The inflammation that is associated with arthritis may cause tissues to weaken and become more vulnerable to injury. People with arthritis can also have a reduced range of movement in their elbows. This can increase stress on the muscles, tendons and joints around the elbow, increasing the risk of developing tennis elbow.
When playing sports, you should not use the incorrect form
Tennis elbow can develop if you use incorrect form when playing sports. This condition is caused by the overuse of muscles and tendons that extend and flex your wrist and hand. Tennis elbow is commonly caused by golfing, pitching and swimming. Incorrect form can cause extra stress to these tissues and lead to pain and inflammation. Tennis elbow is characterized by tenderness and pain on the outside of your forearm near the point where the tendon connects to the bone. In severe cases there can be numbness or weakness in the hand. You can reduce the risk of this condition by protecting your arm when you play sports and using correct form.
Use of outdated equipment
Tennis elbow can be caused by using old equipment. Tennis rackets are different now, and newer models have new shapes and materials which can reduce the risk of tennis elbow. Many players still use old rackets, which are less forgiving and can cause more injury.
Sports in the heat
Tennis elbow can be a result of playing sports in warm weather. You may sweat more in hot weather, which can cause your muscles to become tired and more susceptible. The high temperatures may also cause the ball bounce faster and higher than normal, increasing the risk of injury. When playing sports in the heat, you should take precautions to avoid injury. This includes drinking enough fluids, using sunscreen and staying hydrated.
Previous injury to the forearm
Tennis elbow is often caused by injuries to the forearm. Tennis elbow can be caused by overextending the forearm. Painting, hammering and other activities can also cause this injury. Inflammation and pain around the elbow can occur when the forearm tendons and muscles are injured or overused.
Tennis elbow is more common in people who have injured their forearm. The previous injury could have damaged the muscles and tendons, making them more vulnerable to injury. To reduce this risk, physical therapy can help to improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles and tendon around the elbow.
Playing a game without warming up
Tennis elbow can be caused by playing without warming up. Your muscles and tendons become colder and less elastic when you do not warm up. Your muscles and tendons will be less able than usual to absorb the shock from the tennis ball. If you begin playing tennis, or any other sport, without warming up first, you are more likely to push yourself beyond your limits. This can lead to injury.
Use incorrect strokes
Tennis elbow is caused by the irritation or inflammation of your forearm tendons. It is often caused by incorrect strokes.
Tennis elbow can also be caused by incorrect strokes or using too much force to swing the racquet. Another risk factor is having a weak grip. Tennis elbow can also be caused by playing for long periods, having other injuries in the arm or hands, or having Elbow Tendinosis.
){kind=link}