Anticipating the Start of Tennis Season: What You Need to Know

By Matthew Jaffe, MD

Tennis is a very popular sport for all age groups in Georgia and as the start of the season approaches, I'm always asked about common tennis-related injuries and what can be done to treat them. Most tennis players will experience discomfort at some point in their careers, whether they're a weekend player or a tournament professional.

The shoulder is a common place for injury in tennis and many of these injuries can be attributed to rotator cuff tendonitis or bursitis. Rotator cuff tendonitis and bursitis will usually cause pain while serving or hitting overheads. Pain may also be felt after match play is completed. One can develop inflammation either within the muscles (tendonitis) or above the muscles (bursitis). The best way to treat inflammation is usually with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and occasionally, with a cortisone injection. If inflammation persists for a long time or becomes severe, a visit with an orthopaedic surgeon may be in order.

By far the most common tennis injury I see is lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow. Tennis elbow is a condition involving pain and inflammation over the outside bump of the elbow and is most severe while playing or at nighttime. This problem is a result of inflammation at the attachment of the muscles at the elbow. Over time, the tendons attaching the muscles to bone may develop tiny tears and begin to weaken. This process causes continuing pain and debilitation. Treatment of tennis elbow can involve medications, physical therapy, stretching, or simply a change in racquet or strings. Cortisone injections or surgery may be necessary in some cases.

Knee pain is another common complaint during tennis season. This can be a result of patellofemoral pain (kneecap inflammation), tendonitis, injury to cartilage or ligament strain or tear. Tendonitis and kneecap inflammation can usually be treated with medications, therapy, and rest. However, cartilage or ligament tears require evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon and possible surgical intervention.

Finally, foot and ankle pain can be a source of debilitation in the tennis player as well. Pain arising in the arch or heel of the foot may be due to plantar fascitis, a common inflammatory condition. This can usually be treated with new shoes or shoe inserts, stretching exercises and therapy. When those solutions don't work, medication and injection or surgery may be required.

So as you prepare for tennis season this year, have fun but be aware of the conditions you should watch out for. And remember, if pain persists beyond a few weeks and doesn't resolve itself with rest and over-the-counter medications, a visit with your orthopaedist may be a smart move! Enjoy the Season!