Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a condition associated with pain on the outside of the elbow and forearm. It is also called ‘lateral epicondylitis’ and is associated with inflammation and/or degeneration of the tendons of the forearm at their attachment point to the elbow. The onset can often be quite gradual but is generally associated with repetitive tasks, or movements either through sport (e.g. gripping racquet in tennis) or occupational settings (e.g. long periods typing).

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pain on the outer elbow
  • Pain with gripping, wrist movements, especially extension of the wrist or lifting
  • Pain on active resisted extension of the wrist or fingers
  • Morning stiffness in elbow and forearm region

Treatment

  • Bracing
  • Myofascial release techniques and joint mobilisation to the wrist, elbow and shoulder complex
  • Local Dry Needling
  • Icing periodically
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your GP
  • Exercises may be prescribed to strengthen the area

Other ways to help this condition:

  1. Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your tennis elbow and give your arm time to rest and heal. This may mean taking a break from playing tennis or other repetitive activities that involve gripping and twisting motions.
  2. Ice: Apply ice to your elbow for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This can help reduce pain and inflammation.
  3. Compression: Use a compression bandage or elbow brace to help support your elbow and reduce swelling.
  4. Stretching and strengthening exercises: Perform stretching and strengthening exercises recommended by your osteopath to help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles and tendons in your forearm.
  5. Massage and manual therapy: Consider seeing your osteopath who can provide manual therapy techniques and massage to help improve blood flow and reduce pain and inflammation.
  6. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relief options can be sought from your pharmacist or GP.

It’s important to note that every individual is different and the treatment plan for tennis elbow may vary depending on the severity of the condition. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for a plan that addresses your specific needs.

References

  1. Rest: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5635357/
  2. Ice: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4622619/
  3. Compression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6344657/
  4. Stretching and strengthening exercises: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5635357/
  5. Massage and manual therapy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5635357/
  6. Medications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5635357/

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