How can osteopathy help with tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that occurs when the tendons in your forearm are overloaded, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to tennis players; it can affect anyone who performs repetitive gripping activities involving the hand and wrist. The condition commonly affects people who play racquet sports, hence the name.
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is often caused by repetitive motions and overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons connected to the outside of your elbow, causing soreness. The tendons near the end of your elbow can also get injured from this motion.
As the name implies, tennis elbow is commonly seen in tennis players or in other racket sports. Various factors can impact the risk of developing tennis elbow, such as:
incorrect backhand technique
inadequate strength in the shoulder and wrist muscles
using a tightly strung or improperly sized tennis racket
participating in other racquet sports like racquetball or squash,
hitting the ball off the center of the racket or hitting a heavy ball
However, tennis elbow is not limited to racket sports activities. Other causes which may contribute to the development of tennis elbow include:
Gardening
Painting with a brush or roller
Typing
Operating a chain saw or frequent use of other hand tools on a regular basis
Using repeated hand motions in various professions, such as meat cutters, musicians, dentists, and carpenters
What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?
The primary symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow and forearm, specifically around the bony bump (lateral epicondyle) on the outer side of the elbow. The pain may worsen when gripping or lifting objects, shaking hands, or turning a doorknob. In some cases, the pain can radiate down the forearm.
Experiencing discomfort while attempting to lift and hold onto small items, like a coffee cup, can also be indicative of tennis elbow. Another symptom associated with tennis elbow is diminished grip strength.
It is important to note that the symptoms of tennis elbow may bear similarities to other medical conditions or issues. Thus, it is highly advisable to consult your healthcare provider in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
How is tennis elbow treated?
Treatment for tennis elbow typically involves:
Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.
If these are not effective your healthcare provider may discuss the following options:
a brace or splint to reduce strain on the affected tendons
Injections of corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) might be used to reduce inflammation and promote healing
In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery might be considered
How can osteopathy help with tennis elbow?
Osteopathic treatments for tennis elbow typically involve a combination of hands-on techniques, exercises, and lifestyle recommendations. Here's how osteopathy might help with tennis elbow:
Soft Tissue Manipulation: This can help improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing of the damaged tissues around the elbow.
Joint Mobilization: Gentle joint mobilization techniques aim to improve the range of motion in the affected elbow joint. This can help reduce stiffness and enhance flexibility, making it easier to perform everyday activities without pain.
Muscle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help improve the overall stability of the joint while stretching exercises can enhance flexibility and reduce strain on the tendons.
Posture and Ergonomic Advice: Your Osteopath can provide advice on proper posture and ergonomic modifications, especially for individuals whose tennis elbow is caused or aggravated by repetitive activities or poor ergonomics. Correcting posture and modifying activities can help prevent further strain on the affected muscles and tendons.
Whole-body Approach: Osteopathy views the body as an interconnected system, and practitioners often consider the overall health and balance of the body. They may assess other areas of the body to identify any imbalances or issues that could be contributing to the tennis elbow. Addressing these underlying problems can aid in the healing process.
If you suspect you have tennis elbow, it is essential to consult your osteopath or another healthcare professional who can assess your condition, provide a proper diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about osteopathy, please contact us. You can find us just a few minutes walk from Clapham Common station. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
