In this article, we will explore a common ailment that affects both athletes and non-athletes alike: tennis elbow. We’ll shed light on its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how physiotherapy can help you regain strength and restore pain-free movement. Read on to learn more about this condition and the effective solutions that can be offered by physiotherapists!
Understanding Tennis Elbow:
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow can occur due to various repetitive arm motions and not just limited to tennis players. Common activities like typing, gardening, painting, and even excessive use of mobile devices or computers and mouses can lead to this condition. The repeated stress on the tendons leads to micro-tears and degeneration, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Symptoms and Diagnosis:
Tennis elbow typically manifests as pain on the outside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm and worsen with gripping or lifting objects. Activities like shaking hands or even turning a doorknob can become excruciating. If you experience persistent elbow pain or have difficulty performing daily tasks, it’s recommended to seek advice and treatment.
A physiotherapist can accurately diagnose tennis elbow through a thorough examination, which may involve assessing your medical history, physical tests, and possibly imaging studies.
Physiotherapy: A Solution to Tennis Elbow:
Physiotherapy is a highly effective and non-invasive approach to managing tennis elbow. Our experienced physiotherapists specialise in the treatment of this condition and offer a comprehensive range of techniques to alleviate pain, promote healing, and restore optimal function. Here are some key physio interventions that can help you recover from tennis elbow:
- Manual Therapy: Our skilled physiotherapists employ hands-on techniques to reduce pain and stiffness, enhance joint mobility, and improve tissue healing. They may utilise soft tissue releases, needling, joint manipulation, and therapeutic massage to target specific areas and promote recovery.
- Exercise Program: Tailored exercise programs are designed to strengthen the forearm muscles, improve flexibility, and restore proper biomechanics. These programs may include eccentric strengthening exercises, stretching, and progressive resistance training, all aimed at gradually rehabilitating the injured tendons and restoring functional capacity.
- Ergonomic Advice: Identifying and modifying aggravating factors is crucial in the management of tennis elbow. Our physiotherapists provide ergonomic assessments to identify potential causes, offer recommendations to optimise your workplace or sports equipment setup, and educate you on correct posture and movement techniques to prevent further injury.
- Pain Management Techniques: Physiotherapy offers various pain management techniques such as isometric exercises, taping, massage and manual therapy. These modalities can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process.
Conclusion:
Tennis elbow can significantly impact your daily activities, whether you’re an athlete or not. However, with the guidance and expertise of our experienced physio’s, you can overcome this condition and regain pain-free movement and get back to living your daily life pain-free!
Our dedicated team of physiotherapists will assess your unique needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and guide you through the recovery process. Don’t let tennis elbow hinder your active lifestyle. Contact our clinic today and take the first step towards a pain-free future.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options
