Tennis Elbow – or lateral epicondylitis as it is more correctly known – is a repetitive strain injury. When the muscles and tendons of the forearm have been overused, microscopic tears appear in the extensor tendon, causing inflammation and pain.
Despite the name, Tennis Elbow can be experienced by anyone making repetitive movements with their arms – painters, butchers, assembly line workers, even musicians!
If you have Tennis elbow your forearm may be tender to the touch. You may feel weakness or pain while gripping – like holding shopping bags, or opening a jar. Repetitious movements, like using a mouse can also cause an increase in pain. Using your arm becomes difficult and painful.
The good news is, there are a range of highly effective treatments and therapies a Chiropractor can use to treat Tennis Elbow. Shockwave Therapy, dry needling and use of Smart Tools will help reduce pain, enhance tissue repair and stimulate circulation. Strapping or taping will provide additional support to the muscle and tendon whilst you are recovering. When your symptoms relate to a particular sport or work activity your therapist will observe your style and motion with the activity and provide you with tips and suggestions on how to perform the movement so the elbow is protected.
In the most severe cases surgery may be considered, but this is generally only once other treatments or therapies have not resolved the pain after at least 12 months.
If you are concerned you may have Tennis Elbow – or Butchers Elbow, or Painters Elbow – our Chiropractors are happy to discuss your symptoms and talk you through your treatment options.
Like most repetitive injuries, a recurrence is always on the cards, so if you want to maintain that killer serve, take care of your elbows.
