Is It Osteochondritis or Tennis Elbow?

Elbow pain in teenagers can leave both parents and young athletes puzzled. Many jump to the conclusion that the pain is due to "tennis elbow," a common issue linked to repetitive strain and overuse. However, new research suggests that osteochondritis of the elbow might be the more frequent culprit. In this post, we will explore the differences between these two conditions, their causes, and the best ways to approach treatment and recovery.

Understanding Osteochondritis

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition where a small piece of bone and cartilage in the elbow loosens and separates because of inadequate blood flow. It often affects adolescents who partake in sports that involve repetitive elbow movements, including baseball, gymnastics, and tennis.

Teens with OCD typically report localised pain, swelling, and stiffness in the elbow. A 2019 study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine highlighted that about 15% of athletes aged 12 to 18 develop this condition. If these symptoms are ignored, they can lead to serious complications, including joint instability or an increased risk of developing arthritis later on.

Tennis Elbow: A Misunderstood Diagnosis

Conversely, tennis elbow, known in medical terms as lateral epicondylitis, is mainly caused by overexerting the forearm muscles and tendons. While it is commonly associated with tennis players, it can affect anyone performing repetitive elbow motions. For instance, activities like painting, playing certain musical instruments, or even typing can lead to this condition.

Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain on the outer side of the elbow, weakness when gripping, and discomfort during everyday tasks. Statistics show that tennis elbow accounts for around 1 to 3% of elbow pain cases among teenagers, making awkward movements or overuse a less frequent cause compared to osteochondritis.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognising the specific symptoms associated with osteochondritis can help facilitate a quicker diagnosis. Teens may experience:

• Localised pain in the elbow that intensifies during sports

• Swelling or tenderness around the joint

• A feeling of locking or catching in the elbow while moving

  
  

In contrast, tennis elbow typically shows with:

• Pain on the outer part of the elbow

• Discomfort when gripping objects

• Pain that increases with certain movements, like lifting or pulling

  
  

Being aware of these symptoms can guide parents and teens toward the appropriate treatment options more swiftly.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If elbow pain lingers, visiting a healthcare provider is crucial. An Osteopath will often perform physical examinations and take a detailed patient history to distinguish between osteochondritis and tennis elbow. A referral for onwards may be necessary for imaging.

For osteochondritis, treatment generally includes resting the elbow, immobilisation, and sometimes surgery if conservative methods do not provide relief. In fact, nearly 70% of teenagers with OCD improve with non-surgical treatments. on the other hand, tennis elbow typically responds well to strategies such as rest, ice application, oral anti-inflammatories, and gradual strengthening exercises. Many patients see improvement within six weeks of starting these therapies.

The Path Forward

While tennis elbow often comes to mind as the primary cause of elbow pain in teenagers, it is vital to consider osteochondritis as a possible reason. Understanding the repetitive stress from sports, the unique physiological traits of adolescents, and the specific symptoms related to each condition can lead to quicker, more accurate diagnoses.

By identifying the signs of osteochondritis early and seeking appropriate medical guidance, teens can quickly return to their beloved activities. This proactive approach not only alleviates pain but also minimises the risk of developing chronic elbow issues down the line.