How to Diagnose Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is likely to be the cause of your elbow pain. Tennis elbow occurs when your muscles and tendons become overused. Pain is felt usually on the outside elbow, but can also extend to the shoulder. It is important that you consult a physician if you experience any of these symptoms.
Physical Examination
Tennis elbow can be diagnosed by a physical exam. The doctor will check for swelling and tenderness in the elbow. The doctor will test the elbow range of motion and check for any pain. A doctor may order imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis.
X-Rays
Tennis elbow is often diagnosed using X-rays. This imaging test helps doctors determine if there is any damage to the bones or tendons in the elbow. X-rays may also be used to rule out conditions such as arthritis that can cause similar symptoms. In some cases, MRI and ultrasound can be used to examine the structures of the elbow.
Consult your doctor if you suspect you have tennis elbow. The doctor will probably order an x ray to make a diagnosis.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an easy, painless test that produces images of your insides using sound waves. Tennis elbow is one of the many conditions that can be diagnosed using this method. Tennis elbow can be diagnosed safely and effectively using ultrasound. It is important to remember that ultrasounds may not be able identify every case of tennis elbow. It is important that you speak to your doctor if you think you might have tennis elbow so other diagnostic tests can take place.
MRI
Tennis elbow can be a difficult injury to diagnose. MRI can be used to diagnose tennis elbow because it provides clear images of affected areas. MRI can also be used to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain such as tendonitis or arthritis.
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