Tennis Elbow: The Ultimate Handbook for Recovery and Relief
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylosis, is a common repetitive strain injury that affects people of all ages and lifestyles. Contrary to its name, tennis elbow can be caused by a variety of activities, not just playing tennis. In this comprehensive handbook, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tennis elbow, as well as alternative therapies that may provide relief.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons in the forearm become inflamed and damaged due to repetitive overuse. While playing tennis with the wrong racquet or using an incorrect backhand stroke can contribute to tennis elbow, the majority of cases are caused by everyday activities such as gardening, using scissors, or carrying heavy objects. Surprisingly, less than three percent of the world’s population suffers from tennis elbow, and only five percent of those affected actually play tennis.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow, which can radiate down the forearm. Activities that involve gripping, twisting, or lifting may exacerbate the pain. Other symptoms include point tenderness at the outermost point of the elbow, morning stiffness, and pain when lifting with the wrist palm down.
Treatment and Management
The primary goal of tennis elbow treatment is to alleviate pain and discomfort while allowing the damaged tissues to heal. Modifying activities that caused the condition is crucial, as well as using ice packs to reduce swelling. Analgesics may be recommended to manage pain. Additionally, exercises that strengthen weak forearm muscles can help prevent future occurrences of tennis elbow.
Alternative Therapies
In cases where traditional treatment options do not provide sufficient relief, alternative therapies may be worth considering. Acupuncture combined with massage has been found to be effective in treating tennis elbow. Research has shown that a combination of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine massage yields the best results. Fire needle acupuncture on trigger points has also shown promise in relieving pain and improving joint mobility.
Massage therapy can also be beneficial for tennis elbow. Techniques such as friction and localized soft tissue manipulations can provide relief when performed by a qualified sports massage therapist. Deep massage, stretching, and strengthening exercises may also aid in the healing process.
The Importance of Proper Support
Using a tennis elbow brace or strap on the upper forearm can provide compression and support, easing symptoms of tennis elbow. It is important to ensure that the brace fits properly to provide adequate support without cutting off circulation. Breathable braces that absorb perspiration are ideal for long-term use.
Surgical Options
Surgery should only be considered as a last resort when nonsurgical treatments have failed to provide relief. Most surgical procedures involve the removal of diseased muscle and reattachment of healthy muscle using arthroscopic surgery. However, studies suggest that surgery may not be effective in the long-term treatment of tennis elbow.
Patience is Key
Recovery from tennis elbow can take time, with healing ranging from 2 to 12 months. Rest, therapy, and exercises are essential for a full recovery. If symptoms persist after 6 weeks of home treatment, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide short-term relief.
In conclusion, tennis elbow is a common condition caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles. While it can be debilitating, there are various treatment options available to alleviate pain and promote healing. From traditional approaches like rest and physical therapy to alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage, finding the right combination of treatments is essential for a full recovery. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment plan.