Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis
Is a condition involving inflammation of the tendons on the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not exclusive to tennis players and can affect individuals from various walks of life. This information page aims to provide insights into tennis elbow, its causes, symptoms, and effective therapy options.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons attaching to the lateral epicondyle (a bony prominence on the outer part of the elbow) become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to pain and tenderness around the elbow, making daily activities such as gripping or lifting objects challenging.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
- Overuse or Repetitive Strain: Activities involving repetitive motion of the forearm and wrist, such as tennis, typing, or manual labour, can lead to overuse and strain on the tendons.
- Incorrect Technique: Poor technique in sports or work-related activities can contribute to the development of tennis elbow.
- Age and Degeneration: As individuals age, tendons can undergo natural degeneration, making them more susceptible to injury.
- Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or imbalances in the forearm muscles can increase the risk of developing tennis elbow.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
- Pain: Aching or burning sensation on the outer part of the elbow.
- Weak Grip: Difficulty in gripping or holding objects.
- Tenderness: Sensitivity to touch around the lateral epicondyle.
- Stiffness: Limited range of motion in the forearm and wrist.
Therapy Options for Tennis Elbow
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercises and stretches to enhance forearm muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion, with a focus on addressing any muscle imbalances.
- Manual Therapy: Utilizing hands-on techniques, such as massage and joint mobilization, to relieve muscle tension and enhance overall function in the affected area.
- Ultrasound Therapy: Application of ultrasound waves to the affected region for healing promotion, inflammation reduction, and pain relief.
- Bracing and Support: Individualized recommendations for braces or supports to lessen strain on the affected tendons and encourage proper healing.
- Ergonomic Assessment: Evaluation of work or sports-related activities to identify and rectify any ergonomic issues contributing to tennis elbow.
- Home Exercise Program: Personalized exercises designed by our therapists to empower you with self-care tools for ongoing prevention and management.
Seeking Relief for Tennis Elbow
If you’re experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly. Delaying treatment may prolong recovery and exacerbate the condition. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through a tailored treatment plan to alleviate pain, improve function, and prevent future occurrences.
Don’t let tennis elbow hinder your daily activities. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a pain-free and fully functional elbow. Our commitment is to help you regain control and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.