Tennis elbow is a common condition that occurs due to repetitive strain on the muscles and tendons in the outer aspect of the elbow. Activities such as playing tennis, gardening, and using scissors or hand tools can cause tennis elbow. This article explores how tennis elbow occurs, how to prevent it, and how to treat it if you experience symptoms.
Prevention
To prevent tennis elbow, it is important to understand how it occurs.
When repetitive strain is exerted on the muscles and tendons in the outer aspect of the elbow and forearm, this can lead to pain, tenderness and inflammation which limits hand elbow and wrist movement. Common causes include repetitive or forceful hand/wrist activities, gripping and twisting movements of the forearm.
To prevent this, proper form and technique should be used when performing activities that put a strain on your elbow. This can include using the correct racket grip size and improving swing mechanics when playing tennis particularly in top spin backhand and top spin service strokes. Seeking specialist coaching and re-training sub-optimal stroke technique is beneficial in helping prevent recurrence of tennis elbow pain.
Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help prevent tennis elbow. The Department of Health in Western Australia recommends wrist extensor stretches and wrist flexor strengthening exercises to help prevent the condition. These exercises can be easily incorporated into your daily routine and can reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow and regain strength and endurance of the wrist and forearm muscles.
Treatment Options
If you are experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, several treatment options are available. Resting the affected arm and applying ice to the elbow can reduce pain and inflammation. Using a brace or compression sleeve can support the elbow and forearm muscles and alleviate discomfort.
In most cases, successful recovery will be aided by seeking expert physiotherapy assessment and utilise modern treatment strategies to relieve symptoms and improve mobility and functional performance.
Summary
In conclusion, tennis elbow can be a painful and frustrating condition, but it can be prevented with proper technique, stretching, and strengthening exercises. To prevent tennis elbow, use proper movement mechanics and technique, and incorporate wrist extensor stretches and wrist flexor strengthening exercises into your daily routine. If you experience symptoms, rest, ice, and compression sleeves can provide relief.
If expert professional care is required, seek out an opinion and treatment from a highly qualified and experienced physiotherapist.
By taking steps to prevent and treat tennis elbow, you can stay active and pain-free in your daily activities.
Are you searching for a reliable Beechboro physio? Morley Physiotherapy is your go-to physio destination. Our team provides expert care and advice to clients across Perth, and our Morley location is ideally situated for those in Inglewood, Maylands, Dianella, Noranda, Beechboro, and surrounding suburbs.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that the information and suggestions presented on this website are meant for general educational purposes only and do not serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. We advise you to seek the guidance of your healthcare provider or contact us directly if you have any physiotherapy health concerns.