Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition causing pain around the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, it doesn’t only affect tennis players. Anyone who repetitively uses their forearm muscles can develop this condition. This blog will delve into what tennis elbow is, how it is diagnosed, and how physiotherapy can effectively treat it.

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury affecting the tendons in the elbow. These tendons, known as the extensor tendons, attach to the lateral epicondyle—a bony prominence on the outside of the elbow. The repetitive strain on these tendons, usually from activities involving gripping, lifting, or twisting movements, leads to micro-tears and inflammation. This results in pain and tenderness around the elbow, which can sometimes radiate down the forearm.

No, you don’t need to play tennis to get tennis elbow.

Common Reasons Why People Develop Tennis Elbow:

• Repetitive Activities: Sports like tennis, squash, and badminton, but also activities like painting, typing, or carpentry.
• Age: Most common between the ages of 30 and 50.
• Occupation: Jobs requiring repetitive arm, elbow, or wrist movements, such as plumbers, painters, and butchers.

In most cases, there is no need for an ultrasound or any imaging as it does not change the treatment, and diagnosis can be made purely by your clinical presentation. 

This can be done by your doctor or physiotherapist. 

Here’s what to expect:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Your physiotherapist will begin by taking a detailed medical history, focusing on your symptoms and any activities that exacerbate the pain.

During the physical examination, they will:

• Check for tenderness on the outside of the elbow
• Assess the range of motion in your elbow and wrist.
• Assess strength of the elbow, wrist and grip. 
• Perform specific tests which are designed to reproduce your tennis elbow pain.

2. Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans may be recommended to rule out other conditions such as arthritis or nerve compression. However, this is usually unnecessary.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the effective management of tennis elbow.

Here’s how it can help:

1. Pain Management:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques like soft tissue massage and mobilization can help reduce pain and improve blood circulation to the affected area to provide some short-term pain relief. 
• Taping: Taping can help unload the tendons and muscles to reduce the amount of stress work they need to do. In turn, this may help reduce your tennis elbow pain.

2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises:

• Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises for the forearm muscles can help maintain flexibility and reduce tension on the tendons. 
• Strengthening: Progressive resistance exercises are crucial for building strength and endurance in the forearm muscles. This is the key treatment modailty that your physiotherapist will be using to build capacity and strength in your tendons. 

3. Ergonomic Advice: Physiotherapists can provide advice on modifying your activities and workplace ergonomics to reduce strain on your forearm muscles. This might include adjusting your workstation, using tools with ergonomic handles, or altering your sports technique.

4. Brace or Splint: Wearing a brace or a wrist splint can help offload the affected tendons, providing relief and promoting healing. This may be important if you have significant pain around the tendon. 

5. Education and Activity Modification: Understanding the importance of activity modification is essential. Your physiotherapist will guide you on how to adjust your daily activities to avoid further aggravation. This may involve taking breaks, using proper techniques, and gradually increasing activity levels as your condition improves.

Here are some effective home exercises you can try, as recommended by physiotherapists:

1. Isometric Wrist Extension:

• Place your hand and arm on the table with your palm facing down.
• Use the other hand to push the hand of the injured side down
• With the injured side, try to lift your hand against the resistance of your other hand
• Perform 3 sets of 20-30 seconds.

2. Eccentric Wrist Extension:

• Hold a dumbbell in your hand with your palm facing down.
• Use your other hand to help lift the weight.
• Slowly lower the weight back down using only the affected arm.
• Perform 3 sets of 6-8 repetitions.

While mild cases of tennis elbow can often be managed with home exercises and activity modification, it’s important to seek professional help if you experience:

• Persistent pain despite rest and self-care measures.
• Difficulty performing daily activities due to pain.
• Noticeable weakness in your grip or forearm.
• Feeling any tingling or numbness sensation down your forearm or hand.

If you’re struggling with tennis elbow, don’t let it hinder your daily activities and enjoyment of life. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan.

Our experienced physiotherapists are here to help you recover quickly and prevent future injuries.

Call us now on (02) 4721 1222 or book an appointment online.

Tennis elbow can be a debilitating condition, but with the right diagnosis and physiotherapy treatment, you can manage the pain and get back to your normal activities. Remember, early intervention is key to preventing chronic problems. If you suspect you have tennis elbow, don’t hesitate to reach out to a physiotherapist for a thorough evaluation and effective treatment plan.

For more information on our services and how we can help you, visit our website or call our clinic today.