How Physical Therapy Can Fix Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. While it is often associated with tennis players, it can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm and wrist muscles, such as in activities like gardening, typing, or painting. The good news is that physical therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment option that can help relieve pain, restore function, and prevent future injuries.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed or irritated, typically due to repetitive motions or overuse. The condition often leads to pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting the forearm. Though the pain can be debilitating, physical therapy addresses the root causes of the condition and helps to manage symptoms.
How Physical Therapy Helps
- Pain Management: A physical therapist will use techniques like ice, heat, and electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the early stages of recovery. These methods can help calm irritated tissues and provide short-term relief.
- Strengthening Exercises: One of the primary goals of physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the elbow to improve their function and prevent further strain. Exercises like eccentric strengthening (slowly lowering a weight) for the forearm extensors help to gradually rebuild strength and improve tendon healing. The therapist may also guide you through exercises that target wrist, forearm, and shoulder muscles to ensure balanced strength and prevent compensation injuries.
- Stretching: Tight muscles around the elbow can contribute to the pain of tennis elbow. A physical therapist will teach you stretches to increase flexibility in the forearm muscles and tendons. Stretching can improve range of motion and reduce the risk of re-injury.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization, can help alleviate tension in the muscles and tendons, improve blood flow, and promote healing. This can be particularly beneficial if the tissue is stiff or contracted due to injury.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Physical therapists can assess your posture, hand movements, and the mechanics of your activities. They will offer tips on proper ergonomics to reduce strain on the elbow and avoid aggravating the injury in the future.
Conclusion
With the right approach, physical therapy can help you recover from tennis elbow and return to your daily activities without pain. If you’re dealing with tennis elbow, consult a physical therapist to learn personalized exercises and strategies that can get you back on track. Patience and consistency are key, but with proper treatment, full recovery is very possible.
