Get Lasting and Effective Treatment For Tennis Elbow With Physical Therapy
That nagging pain on the outside of your elbow? The one that flares up with every backhand or even a simple handshake? It could be tennis elbow. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, affects many individuals, not just tennis players. It’s an overuse injury that can impact anyone who performs repetitive motions involving the wrist and forearm, from painters and carpenters to office workers and even avid knitters.
Keep reading to learn how physical therapy can help treat and prevent this common condition.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the outside of your elbow. These tendons are responsible for extending your wrist and fingers. When they’re overworked, tiny tears can develop, leading to pain and tenderness.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow
- This is the most common symptom, often worsening with activities that involve gripping, twisting, or lifting.
Weak grip strength
- You might find it difficult to hold onto objects or even open a jar.
Pain radiating down your forearm
- The discomfort can sometimes extend from your elbow toward your wrist.
Physical Therapy For Tennis Elbow
Physical therapy for the treatment helps to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence. A typical physical therapy plan for tennis elbow might include:
Manual Therapy
Your physical therapist might use hands-on techniques to reduce pain, mobilize the soft tissues around your elbow, improve blood flow, and reduce muscle tension.
Joint Mobilization
This involves strategic movements of the elbow joint to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
Exercises
Strengthening Exercises
As your pain subsides, strengthening exercises for the forearm, wrist, and other muscles that support the wrist can help prevent future injuries.
Eccentric Exercises
These exercises involve slowly lengthening the muscles while they’re under tension. They’ve been shown to be particularly effective for elbow rehabilitation.
Bracing or Taping
Counterforce Brace
- This type of brace is worn just below the elbow and helps to redistribute the forces on the tendons, reducing stress and pain.
Kinesiology Tape
- This specialized tape can be applied to the elbow and forearm to provide support, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension.
Prevention Strategies
Proper Technique
- If you play tennis or other racquet sports, our PTs can help ensure you have the proper form and technique to minimize stress on your elbow.
Warm-up and Cool-down
- Always warm up before engaging in any activity and cool down afterward to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
Ergonomics
- If you work at a desk, ensure your workstation is set up ergonomically to minimize stress on your wrists and forearms.
Treatment For Tennis Elbow At Kaizen Physical Therapy
Tennis elbow can be a frustrating and painful condition, but with proper treatment and prevention strategies, you can overcome it and return to your favorite activities pain-free. If you’re struggling with elbow pain, don’t hesitate to contact us for help. Our experienced physical therapists can create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.
Schedule an appointment today and take the first step towards a stronger, healthier you.
