Lateral Epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow. It is often caused by overuse or repetitive strain injury of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus bone in the elbow.
What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?
The symptoms of tennis elbow can vary in severity and may include:
Pain: The primary symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outer part of the elbow, which may be dull or sharp in nature. The pain may also radiate down the forearm and into the wrist.
Weakness: Tennis elbow can also cause weakness in the affected arm, making it difficult to grip or lift objects.
Stiffness: Some people with tennis elbow may experience stiffness in the elbow joint, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Tenderness: The affected area may be tender to the touch, and there may be a visible bump on the outer part of the elbow.
Difficulty with everyday tasks: Activities such as gripping objects, turning a doorknob, or shaking hands may be difficult or painful.
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to see a doctor or physical therapist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How does Physical Therapist Rehabilitate Tennis Elbow?
Physical therapists use a variety of techniques to help patients rehab tennis elbow, which is a painful condition that occurs when the tendons in the forearm become inflamed due to overuse. Here are some common techniques that a physical therapist may use to treat tennis elbow:
Manual therapy: Physical therapists may use hands-on techniques such as massage, stretching, and joint mobilization to help relieve pain and improve range of motion in the affected area.
Exercise: Specific exercises are often prescribed to help strengthen the muscles in the forearm and improve flexibility. These may include wrist curls, reverse wrist curls, and eccentric exercises that involve slowly lowering a weight.
Modalities: Physical therapists may use various modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and ice to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Taping: Taping techniques may be used to help support the affected area and relieve pain during activities that aggravate the condition.
Education: Physical therapists may educate patients on proper ergonomics, posture, and techniques to avoid exacerbating the condition.
Activity modification: Physical therapists may recommend modifying activities that aggravate the condition, such as avoiding repetitive gripping or lifting heavy objects.
Bracing: A physical therapist may recommend a brace or splint to help support the affected area and reduce pain during activities.
It's important to note that the exact treatment plan will vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of their condition. A physical therapist will perform a thorough evaluation and work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Self-treatment options for Lateral Epicondylitis:
Rest: Rest the affected arm and avoid activities that aggravate the pain. This will help reduce the strain on the forearm muscles and tendons.
Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, 3-4 times a day. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.
Compression: Use an elbow strap or brace to compress the affected area. This will help reduce the strain on the forearm muscles and tendons.
Stretching: Perform gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion. You can try the wrist flexor stretch, where you extend your arm and wrist, and use your other hand to pull your fingers down towards your wrist.
Strengthening: Do strengthening exercises to build up the forearm muscles. You can use light weights or a resistance band to perform wrist curls and extensions.
NSAIDs: Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Massage: Use a foam roller or massage ball to massage the affected elbow area. This will help increase blood flow and reduce muscle tension.
If your symptoms persist or worsen despite these self-treatment options, or if you need a speedy recovery, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. Our PT clinic offers a free 20 min physical therapy consultation, we strongly encourage you to reach out to make sure that your rehab strategy is appropriate.