Blog post by Haresh R (B.SC Physiotherapy)
Introduction:
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. While the name suggests a tennis-related origin, this condition can affect anyone who repeatedly performs gripping or wrist-extension activities. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers effective strategies to alleviate pain and promote healing.
Understanding Tennis Elbow:
Tennis elbow develops from repetitive stress on the tendons that attach to the lateral aspect of the humerus, resulting in inflammation and pain. Activities such as tennis, gardening, typing, or manual labour can contribute to this condition. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
The Role of Physiotherapy:
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the management of tennis elbow by addressing pain, improving strength and flexibility, and promoting tissue healing. Here's how physiotherapy can help:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis:
A thorough evaluation by a physiotherapist helps identify the underlying causes of tennis elbow and tailor a treatment plan to individual needs. This typically invloves assessing muscle strength, joint mobility, and biomechanics of the upper limb.
2. Manual Therapy:
Hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilizations, and myofascial release can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate pain in the affected area. Dry needling of the forearm can also prove effective in relieving pain.
3. Exercise Prescription:
A structured exercise program focuses on strengthening the muscles of the forearm, wrist, and shoulder, as well as improving flexibility and coordination. This may include strengthening and stretching exercises of the wrist and shoulder to restore optimal function.
4. Biomechanical Corrections:
Physiotherapists address faulty movement patterns and biomechanical abnormalities that contribute to tennis elbow. This may involve recommendations for ergonomic modifications, proper equipment use, and techniques to prevent re-injury. A tennis elbow brace can also prove useful in maintaining function and reducing pain with repetitive activites.
Conclusion:
Tennis elbow can be a debilitating condition, but with the guidance of a physiotherapist, individuals can find relief from pain and regain function in their daily activities. If you're experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, don't hesitate to seek the expertise of a physiotherapist for personalized assessment and treatment. With the right care and support, you can overcome tennis elbow and return to pain-free living.