Tennis Elbow: Game, Set, Heal.
Tennis elbow: it's not what you get from watching too much Wimbledon or the Australian Open.
Think of tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis as the body’s way of saying, "You’ve overplayed your hand." Tennis elbow is a form of tendinitis that results from overuse of the arm, forearm, and hand muscles, leading to elbow pain. Contrary to its name, athletes are not the only ones who can develop this condition. Carpenters, painters, and even office workers can experience tennis elbow due to repetitive motion and overuse.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The main offender? Repetitive motion. It’s like hitting the same backhand slice over and over again without a break. Age, repetitive work tasks, and yes, certain sports, can increase the risk, especially if you're not 'acing' your technique.
Age: Individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 are more likely to develop tennis elbow.
Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive motions of the wrist and arm are more prone to this condition.
Sports: Engaging in racket sports increases the risk of tennis elbow, especially if improper technique is used.
Symptoms to Watch For:
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, which may also radiate into the forearm and wrist.
Other symptoms include:
A weak grip strength
Pain when lifting or bending the arm
Pain when gripping small objects, such as a pen
Pain when twisting the forearm, such as opening a jar or using a screwdriver
Treatment and Rehabilitation: The Game Plan
At North Shore Hand Therapy, our approach to treating tennis elbow involves a combination of rest, physiotherapy, and sometimes medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Our treatment strategies include:
Rest and Ice: Initial treatment often involves rest and activity modification
Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises can strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility without further straining the tendons. This may also include dry-needling.
Bracing: Wearing a brace centered over the back of your forearm may help relieve symptoms by resting the muscles and tendons.
Technique Correction: Correcting form and technique can prevent the recurrence of tennis elbow.
In cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, more advanced options such as injections or surgery may be considered and we can refer you to the appropriate specialist.
Preventive Measures:
Preventing tennis elbow involves taking proactive steps to reduce strain on your arms and elbows, including:
Strengthening exercises for the arm muscles
Ensuring proper technique and equipment use in sports and occupational activities
Taking frequent breaks during repetitive tasks to allow muscles to rest
Conclusion: Winning Against Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is a common but manageable condition with the right approach to care and rehabilitation. At North Shore Hand Therapy, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the knowledge and treatment necessary to overcome pain and regain function. If you're experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, we encourage you to reach out for an appointment. Together, we can develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle, ensuring a swift and effective recovery.
