If you’re suffering from pain on the outside of your elbow that worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting motions, you might be dealing with Tennis Elbow—a condition that affects far more people than just athletes. At Nadora Healthcare, Dr. Billy Baumgartner, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in elbow, wrist, hand, shoulder, and upper extremity conditions, offers advanced, targeted treatment for this painful overuse injury.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis Elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by small tears in the extensor tendons of the forearm, most commonly where the tendons attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (the lateral epicondyle). These microtears result from repetitive motion or overuse—think typing, painting, lifting, or using tools—not just tennis swings.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning on the outer elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Discomfort that worsens with repetitive movements
- Pain that radiates down the forearm
If left untreated, the pain may persist for months or worsen, leading to more significant disability in both work and daily life.
Why See a Specialist Like Dr. Baumgartner?
As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon focused on the upper extremity, Dr. Baumgartner brings highly specialized training to elbow conditions. His background allows him to differentiate Tennis Elbow from other sources of arm pain, such as radial tunnel syndrome or cervical nerve issues, and offer treatment with unmatched precision.
At Nadora Healthcare, patients receive comprehensive evaluations that go beyond surface-level symptoms—ensuring proper diagnosis and personalized care.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Most cases of Tennis Elbow can be treated without surgery. Dr. Baumgartner develops customized non-operative plans based on severity, lifestyle, and activity level. These may include:
1. Activity Modification
Avoiding or modifying the activity causing the strain is the first step. Temporary rest or changes in technique may help the tendon begin to heal.
2. Bracing or Elbow Supports
Forearm straps or counterforce braces can reduce tension on the affected tendon and provide symptom relief.
3. Anti-inflammatory Medications
NSAIDs can be used to manage inflammation and reduce pain during flare-ups.
4. Corticosteroid Injections
In select cases, targeted steroid injections can provide short-term pain relief, especially when pain limits physical therapy participation.
5. Referral-Based Physical Therapy
Focused therapy—usually through external partners—can strengthen the forearm muscles and improve tendon resilience through eccentric loading exercises.
6. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
For patients who don’t respond to traditional therapies, regenerative options like PRP may be discussed. These involve injecting growth factors from the patient’s own blood to stimulate tendon healing.
When Surgery Is Needed
If symptoms persist after 6 to 12 months of comprehensive conservative treatment, Dr. Baumgartner may recommend surgical intervention.
Surgical treatment for Tennis Elbow typically involves:
- Removal of degenerated tendon tissue
- Reattachment of healthy tendon to bone
- Minimally invasive techniques to reduce downtime and scarring
The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis. Most patients return to light activity within a few weeks and resume full activity over time with a structured recovery plan.
Why Patients Trust Nadora Healthcare
Patients choose Nadora Healthcare not just for expert surgical care, but because of the personalized experience. With Dr. Baumgartner’s focus on finger, hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, and upper extremity conditions, you’re in the hands of a true specialist—not a generalist.
From diagnosis through treatment, follow-up, and recovery, care is seamless, efficient, and centered on outcomes that matter to you—like pain relief, function, and return to daily life.
Schedule a Consultation Today For Tennis Elbow
If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain or suspect you have Tennis Elbow, it’s time to consult a true upper extremity expert. Dr. Billy Baumgartner at Nadora Healthcare offers targeted, evidence-based treatment plans that resolve pain and restore strength.
Stop living with pain—schedule your evaluation today with the region’s trusted elbow and upper extremity specialist.
