Tennis Injuries: What to Watch For
Inspired by an epic US Open? From tennis elbow to rotator cuff tendonitis, the common injuries on the court and how to prevent them.
Watching the US Open this year, with so many epic matches, was thrilling. I stayed up until 3 a.m. watching the epic Ben Shelton vs. Alcaraz match, and my eyes never left the screen as Ben Shelton played his fellow American, Frances Tiafoe. It was wonderful seeing the Williams sisters play together again. Tennis is a sport I've taken up over the last several years, and I'm addicted! I'm amazed at the strength and resilience of these athletes.
With all that practicing, many tennis injuries can result. Arm, wrist, and shoulder injuries can come from falls, gripping, and overuse. Rotator cuff tendonitis or tears can occur after repetitive strokes, gripping and raising the arm with each swing.
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is inflammation of the tendon on the outside of the elbow and the forearm muscles, caused by gripping movements of the wrist and swinging.
Knee injuries can include patellar tendonitis, bursitis, ligament tears, and arthritis. Back muscle strains and injuries can happen with twisting, sudden movements while running, and the hyperextension that occurs with serving. Other injuries include Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, and ankle sprains.
To prevent injury: stretch and warm up, wear proper shoes, avoid uneven surfaces, and strengthen your muscles with training. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) can help with some injuries, but see a physician for evaluation of any injury or muscle or joint pain.
Dr. Maggie Cadet, MD