Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort around the outer part of the elbow. This injury can affect anyone who frequently engages in repetitive arm and wrist movements, despite its name suggesting it may be exclusive to tennis players.
If you are experiencing a painful elbow, continue reading to understand the causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Additionally, you can read the blog written by our exercise physiologist at Shailer Park clinic. Our expert health practitioners can help you manage and even prevent tennis elbow effectively.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
The main mechanism behind tennis elbow originates from overusing the forearm muscles and tendons. The extensive usage then leads to small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer part of the elbow). Common causes include:
- Repetitive Motions: Activities such as tennis, weightlifting, painting, typing, or carpentry can strain the forearm tendons.
- Poor Technique: Incorrect grip or form in sports or occupational tasks can increase stress on the tendons.
- Lack of Strength or Flexibility: Weak forearm muscles or poor flexibility can contribute to excessive strain.
- Sudden Overload: Lifting heavy objects or performing new activities without proper conditioning may trigger symptoms.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow typically develops gradually and presents with the following symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Pain when lifting objects, shaking hands, or turning a doorknob
- Stiffness and discomfort that worsen with activity
Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening, so it’s essential to address pain as soon as it arises.
Effective Treatment Options
Managing tennis elbow involves reducing pain, promoting healing, and restoring function at Essential Health Physiotherapy Shailer Park. Treatment options include:
| Treatment Options | Function |
|---|---|
| Rest and Activity Modification | – Avoid repetitive movements that aggravate the condition. – Modify tasks or use ergonomic equipment to reduce strain on the elbow. |
| Physiotherapy | A physiotherapist can guide you through strengthening exercises to support the forearm muscles. Manual therapy and soft tissue techniques may help relieve tension. |
| Dry Needling | These techniques can help release muscle tension and promote healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area. |
| Bracing and Supports | Wearing a forearm brace can offload stress from the affected tendons, reducing pain during activities. |
| Pain Management | – Ice application can reduce inflammation and discomfort. – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended in some cases. |
| Advanced Treatments | In persistent cases, corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy may be considered. Surgery is rarely needed but may be an option for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments. |
Preventing Tennis Elbow
Preventing tennis elbow involves strengthening the forearm muscles and reducing excessive strain. Consider these key strategies:
- Strength Training: Regularly perform forearm and grip-strengthening exercises.
- Stretching: Stretch the wrist extensors and flexors to maintain flexibility.
- Proper Technique: Use correct form in sports and daily activities to minimise strain.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Use tools with comfortable grips and maintain good wrist posture.
- Gradual Progression: Increase activity levels progressively to prevent sudden overload.
Time to Take Action Against Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow can be a frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and preventative measures, it can be effectively managed. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, seeking professional guidance early can prevent long-term discomfort and complications.
Essential Health Physiotherapy Shailer Park specialises in treating musculoskeletal conditions like tennis elbow. Whether you need manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, or pain relief strategies, we’re here to help. Book a consultation today to start your recovery journey and regain pain-free movement.
Hotline to get rid of Tennis Elbow Pain Here👉 07 3132 0898
References
Karanasios, S., Korakakis, V., Whiteley, R., & Mani-Babu, S. (2021). Effectiveness of exercise programs in the treatment of tennis elbow: A systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55(7), 374-384. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2020-103767
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