What is Tennis Elbow?
Lateral epicondylalgia or “tennis elbow” is a very common injury to the tendons that attach to the outer portion of your elbow. Many patients will come for physiotherapy and ask why they experience this type of pain, when they don’t play tennis at all. Generally, the main cause stems from repetitive movement at the elbow and wrist. This can create small tears in the tendons and your body is not able to heal itself in time.
What are the signs and symptoms of “tennis elbow”?
- Tenderness at outer portion of elbow
- Pain with gripping
- Decrease grip strength
- Decrease movement at elbow and wrist
- Stiffness
How can physiotherapy help me?
Furthermore, if you underwent a physiotherapy assessment, and your physiotherapist believes this is your prognosis, they will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to address your condition. In addition, common treatment techniques your physiotherapist may perform can include:
- Acupuncture to relieve pain
- Hands on mobilization technique to increase movement and reduce painful grip
- Soft tissue massage
- Therapeutic ultrasound to promote healing
- Low level laser therapy
- A guided home exercise program consisting of stretching and strengthening
- Patient education so you have increase understanding of this condition and how to manage the symptoms and prevent further aggravation
- Prescription of elbow braces so you can still carry out important tasks with reduced pain
In conclusion, thank you for taking time to read this blog post. If you are currently experiencing this condition or have any other injury, please call Fairview Physiotherapy and Rehab centre today to schedule your appointment with one of our physiotherapists.
