If you're experiencing discomfort on the outer part of your elbow, you might be dealing with tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis. Despite its name, this common overuse syndrome isn't exclusive to tennis players. It can affect anyone whose activities involve repetitive wrist and arm movements.
Understanding Tennis Elbow
In the forearm, muscles responsible for wrist movement connect to the bone through tendons. Many of these tendons converge on the lateral epicondyle, the outer part of the elbow. Tennis elbow can develop when these tendons undergo excessive strain or overuse due to repetitive actions. These factors can include overuse, poor technique, lifting heavy objects or using racquets with an improper technique.
Identifying Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is often caused by repetitive wrist and arm movements and can stem from various occupational and recreational activities, including:
Racquet sports: Tennis, squash, and badminton involve repetitive gripping and swinging motions, putting strain on the tendons of the forearm.
Manual labor: Jobs that require repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as carpentry, plumbing, and painting
Typing: Prolonged typing on a computer keyboard or using a mouse without proper ergonomic supportÂ
Recognising Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Early identification of tennis elbow symptoms is crucial for effective management. Look out for:
Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow
Pain radiating down the forearm, aggravated by gripping or lifting objects
Weakness in the affected arm, hindering gripping or lifting tasks
Stiffness and difficulty fully extending the forearm or wrist
How Physiotherapy Can Help
A Physiotherapist will provide a personalised treatment plan to help manage and treat symptoms. This can involve manual therapy and strategies that you can do at home such as:
Specific exercises targeting the wrist and elbow
Guidance on modifying daily activities to aid in the forearm healing
Application of taping or bracing techniques
Education on the syndrome and effective pain management strategies
Don't let tennis elbow keep you off the court or impede your daily life. Whether you're a tennis enthusiast or facing elbow pain from other factors, seeking help from a physiotherapist can provide relief and aid in recovery. Take proactive steps to address your symptoms and get back to enjoying life pain-free.
To ensure you're in top form and to prevent recurring injuries, consider booking an appointment with our experienced Physiotherapists at Prana Physiotherapy & Health. Don't wait until discomfort sidelines you – schedule your appointment today for a healthier, more enjoyable match. Please call (02) 9436 2565 or book an appointment online with one of our experienced physiotherapists.
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