4 Ways to Check for Tennis Elbow at Home

Repeated incorrect movements of the arm can lead to tennis elbow. In most cases, there is an increased pressure on the tendon, which causes inflammation due to a breakdown, according to an article on Medical News Today. In the United States, 1 in every 3 people between 30 and 50 years of age is affected by tennis elbow. However, the condition might be mistaken for golfer’s elbow, osteochondritis or arthritis. But, there are some easy tests that can be done at home to determine whether you are truly suffering from tennis elbow.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling, consider getting an elbow brace. Elbow tendonitis brace can address the symptoms and offer adequate relief and care, say experts at Aidfull. Before resorting to any other treatment, besides using elbow straps, here are a few ways to confirm tennis elbow.

1. Mill’s Test

The first step is to sit comfortably and straighten the affected arm. Next, flex your wrist as much as possible with the elbow extended and check for pain in the area of insertion at the lateral epicondyle, according to an article by Physiopedia. If you feel any kind of discomfort, the test is deemed positive. At this point, the doctor will decide whether steroid injection, compression elbow sleeve or physiotherapy is required.

2. Maudsley’s Test

This is a quick process in which you have to extend the aching arm. Keep the palms facing upward and use the other hand to pull back the middle finger. Now, try to resist this movement. Repeat the same by facing your palm downward and pressing the middle finger again. If you experience any pain over the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, it is a sign of tennis elbow. Tennis elbow braces are the best way to reduce the pain and support the muscles.

3. Cozen’s Test

This is best done in the presence of a doctor at home. In this, you will have to keep the elbow extended, the forearm pronated and the hand in a fist, while extending and radially deviating the wrist against resistance, according to an article by MedSchool. The doctor will examine for pain in the lateral epicondyle. The test is positive if you experience weakness or inability to move your hand. Self-care measures like icing, tennis elbow support, rest and painkillers are usually prescribed.

4. Coffee Cup Test

This is the simplest test but helps detect tennis elbow quite accurately. All you have to do is try to lift a coffee mug, a hammer or a carton of milk. If you have tennis elbow, you will feel localized pain in the lateral epicondyle and active contraction of the wrist can worsen it, according to an article by Science Direct. In fact, achieving a wide range of motion becomes difficult over time. Pick the best elbow braces, made of sturdy breathable material to aid in speedy recovery.

Other tests include chair pick up and palpating, which can confirm the presence of tennis elbow. Consult a doctor and choose the right copper elbow sleeve for yourself and consider resting and icing for quick relief.