What is Lateral Epicondylitis?
Lateral Epicondylitis is inflammation of the epicondyle, which is located at top of the forearm near the elbow. The tendons in this area become inflamed and sometimes can tear, which causes pain and swelling in and around the elbow region. The Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Morici, Longo & Associates represent many clients that have suffered from this type of repetitive injury. This type of injury usually occurs when repetitive movements are done on a day-to-day basis. Employees that suffer from this injury usually engage in gripping, squeezing, or tightening motions with their hands and wrists. Lateral Epicondylitis worsens with constant repetitive movements such as the ones listed above.
How is Lateral Epicondylitis diagnosed and treated?
Unfortunately, this type of injury can’t be detected through blood tests and is rarely found by X-Rays. The type of pain described to the physician is how this injury is usually diagnosed. Since it is difficult to diagnose, it is almost equally difficult to treat. There isn’t a definitive treatment for Lateral Epicondylitis. The most effective treatment is to completely rest the arm and cease all movement and regular use until swelling and pain minimize, icing the affected area is helpful with the swelling. Cortisone shots can be injected by a physician and are another form of treatment for Lateral Epicondylitis.
If you have been diagnosed with this condition and believe that it may be related to your employment, please contact Morici, Longo & Associates. Our Chicago personal injury attorneys would be happy to review your case at no cost or obligation to you.