Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that affects the tendons in the muscles of the forearm. Despite the name, tennis players are not the only ones who can suffer from this type of injury. The condition can affect anyone who performs repetitive movements and puts excessive strain on the muscles of the forearm and wrist.
Risk factors for tennis elbow include not only repetitive movements, but also poor technique during certain activities and inadequate warming up before physical exertion.
To prevent tennis elbow, it is important to use proper technique during physical activity, avoid excessive strain, and perform appropriate warm-up and stretching routines.
Cause & common symptoms of tennis elbow
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, has several common causes, and they include:
Repetitive motion
Repeated and monotonous movements involving the wrist and forearm, especially if performed without adequate rest or recovery, can cause overuse and result in tennis elbow. This is not only true for tennis players, but also for people who perform other repetitive activities, such as using tools or performing repetitive muscle contractions.
Improper technique
Using improper technique during certain activities, especially when lifting or working with tools, can increase the risk of tennis elbow. Poor posture and incorrect movement patterns can place excessive stress on the muscles and tendons in the forearm.
Overexertion without warming up
Performing vigorous or unfamiliar movements without adequate warming up increases the risk of overexertion and can lead to injuries, including tennis elbow.
Age and degeneration
Age-related changes and degeneration of the tendons in the forearm can also contribute to the development of tennis elbow. While this condition can affect people of all ages, older individuals are more likely to experience age-related degeneration of the tendons.
Untrained muscles
Weak or untrained muscles in the forearm and wrist can increase the risk of overexertion and injuries, including tennis elbow. Muscle strength and flexibility play an important role in supporting these areas and reducing the risk of injury.
Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Common symptoms of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) include:
Pain on the outside of the elbow
The most characteristic symptom is pain felt on the outside of the elbow, especially around the bony bump called the lateral epicondyle.
Pain with gripping and lifting
The pain often worsens when you use your hand to grip or lift objects, such as carrying bags or holding tools.
Pain with wrist movements
Movements involving the wrist, such as twisting or bending it, can also cause pain.
Stiffness
A feeling of stiffness in the wrist and forearm may occur, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity.
Weakness
The muscles in the forearm may feel weak, and the person may experience difficulty holding or lifting objects.
Radiating pain
Sometimes the pain may radiate down the forearm and up towards the shoulder. This can create a burning or tingling sensation.
Increased pain with pressure
The pain may increase when pressing or stroking the affected area.
Fine motor difficulties
Loss of fine motor control may occur, which can affect the ability to perform detailed tasks such as writing or pressing buttons.
It is important to note that symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications.
How is tennis elbow treated?
Before we perform a treatment for tennis elbow, we always do a proper examination and look at the entirety of your problem. Many times the pain you experience can originate from another or more places in the body.
The chiropractor can use various manual techniques to relieve tension and improve mobility in one or more joints and the area around your problem. This can include joint manipulation, soft tissue therapy, muscle stretching, but also advice on rehabilitation training and ergonomics. If necessary, we cooperate with other healthcare providers and ensure that you receive the right type of care.
