Tennis elbow is a common condition that affects people who engage in repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as tennis players, golfers, and manual laborers. It is caused by the inflammation of the tendons in the elbow, which can result in pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for tennis elbow, providing a non-invasive and drug-free approach to pain relief.
Causes
Tennis elbow is caused by the repeated contraction of the forearm muscles that attach to the outside of the elbow. This can cause tiny tears in the tendons, leading to inflammation and pain. This is the initial onset of injury, lasting a few days. However, without proper addressing, these injuries can develop into a chronic nature. The muscle will have a REDUCTION in blood flow and decaying of the muscle and tendon. This is why we now call the chronic injury “Lateral epicondylopathy” instead of “epicondylitis” (the -itis suffix means inflammation while the -opathy suffix means a condition of).
These chronic injuries are often past the state of the initial injury and need to be activated rather than rested. Common causes of tennis elbow include overuse of the forearm muscles, poor technique during sports or manual labor, and improper equipment.
Symptoms
The symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and difficulty lifting or carrying objects. The pain may also radiate down the forearm and into the wrist. Patients will often report difficulty with racket sports, hence the name.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic care can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with tennis elbow by addressing the condition’s underlying cause. Chiropractors may use various techniques, including adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises to improve joint mobility and reduce inflammation. Chiropractic care helps by improving the function of the elbow joint and reducing inflammation in the surrounding tissues. These combine to restore the range of motion and reduce pain.
Our office also offers Cold Laser Therapy. This utilizes a class 4 laser penetrating deep into the cell to increase blood flow, and cellular recovery, all while decreasing healing timelines. Treatments are typically between 3-12 minutes, depending on the
Prevention
To prevent tennis elbow from occurring or recurring, it is essential to engage in proper technique during sports and manual labor. This includes using the appropriate equipment and taking breaks to rest and stretch the forearm muscles. Also, maintaining good posture and using ergonomic equipment can help reduce elbow and forearm muscles strain.
In conclusion, lateral epicondylopathy is a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort in the elbow, wrist, and forearm. Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for tennis elbow, providing a non-invasive and drug-free approach to pain relief. By addressing the underlying cause of the condition and providing preventative measures, chiropractic care can help reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow and promote long-term health and wellness.
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If you’d like more info, please visit the Mayo Clinic’s website.