Top Tennis Elbow Treatments

Tennis elbow is sometimes referred to as lateral epicondylitis. It’s a condition wherein the tendons in the forearm that attach to the elbow become inflamed. The inflammation is the result of the forearm muscles being overused. The condition is called tennis elbow because amateur tennis players are particularly prone to it; over 70 percent of the people who play the sport will develop it eventually. However, it is not a problem limited to that demographic. Anyone who overuses their forearm muscles may find themselves needing to seek tennis elbow treatment. You can overuse your forearm muscles by repeatedly gripping an object. People who chop food or carry heavy bags can also suffer from tennis elbow.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow  

The primary symptom of tennis elbow is a soreness on the outer part of the elbow that can radiate into the forearm and down into the wrist. In some cases, it may travel upwards into the upper arm. The pain is often minor to start out, but can increase over time. Any activity that involves moving the elbow will cause the pain to spike.

Tennis elbow is not likely to resolve on its own without any treatment. If you have tennis elbow, you should seek the care of a qualified healthcare provider such as a chiropractor. Chiropractors have many options when it comes to tennis elbow treatment.  Therapies can include:

• Elbow Adjustment  

The spinal adjustment is the core element of chiropractic treatment, but is not the only technique that chiropractors have at their disposal. Your chiropractor can perform an adjustment on your elbow to help the joint function better. An adjustment can lessen pain and improve range of motion. In addition to an elbow adjustment, a more comprehensive treatment plan may include a spinal adjustment as well.

• Rest  

Your chiropractor may prescribe tendon rest as a part of tennis elbow treatment. Rest will give your body time to heal the injury on its own.

• Icing  

The application of ice is often prescribed along with rest as a tennis elbow treatment. Ice may help with any inflammation associated with tennis elbow and may also stimulate the tissues to help with healing. Apply ice for 1 to 2 minutes at a time, several times per day.

• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)  

Electrotherapy is an effective technique long used by physical therapists to provide pain relief and to stimulate healing. This therapy involves the use of electrical currents from a battery-powered device called a TENS unit to reduce pain in the joint. The TENS unit can also be used to break up adhesions and scar tissue.

• Stretching

Stretching can help to keep the elbow loose and functioning properly. It can also help to promote healing and ensure the injured tendons mend correctly. Your chiropractor might recommend that you use stretching techniques two or more times per day.

• Bracing  

Bracing can relieve pressure at the point where the tendon meets the bone, which gives the injured area the opportunity to heal.

Tennis elbow is an injury that can persist for a long time, especially if it’s not treated properly. The pain can limit your performance on the tennis court and at your job. At Chiro-Med Rehab Centre, we have a range of treatment options that can help to provide relief from your symptoms and get you back to normal. Call to request your free consultation.