Elbow Pain: How Chiropractic Care Helps with Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition causing discomfort and pain around the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition is not exclusive to tennis players.

Non-athletes can also develop tennis elbow due to chronic overuse, particularly as they age and their tendons degenerate. It arises from repetitive stress to the forearm muscles and tendons, which can occur during activities like typing, weightlifting, or other racquet sports.

At One Spine Chiropractic, our approach emphasises identifying and addressing the root cause of tennis elbow to provide relief and restore optimal function. Here’s how chiropractic care can be part of your journey to recovery.

Understanding Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow involves tiny tears in the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow joint. The main source of pain is located at the bony knob on the outside of the elbow where the injured tendons connect to the bone. These injured tendons, particularly the extensor carpi radialis brevis, often result in pain and tenderness around the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer elbow).

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain or discomfort when gripping, lifting, or performing repetitive motions.
• Tenderness and swelling near the bony knob on the outer elbow.
• Weakness in the affected arm, wrist, or forearm muscles.
• Stiffness or limited movement in the elbow joint.

Common Causes and Risk Factors:

• Repetitive Strain: Activities like racket sports, weightlifting, or using vibrating tools.
• Poor Technique: Improper form when performing tasks or playing sports increases strain on the affected tendon.
• Sudden Injuries: Direct trauma to the elbow or arm.
• Age and Tendon Degeneration: Natural wear and tear can lead to tiny tears in the tendon and increase susceptibility to injury.

Diagnosing Tennis Elbow

Diagnosing tennis elbow involves a comprehensive approach that includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and, if necessary, imaging tests.

The first step in diagnosing tennis elbow is taking a detailed medical history. Our Chiropractor will ask about your symptoms, medical background, and daily activities to determine the likelihood of tennis elbow. This information helps identify any repetitive motions or activities that may have contributed to your condition.

Next, a physical examination is conducted to assess the elbow and forearm. Our Chiropractor will look for signs of tenderness, swelling, and limited mobility. We may ask you to perform specific movements to evaluate pain levels and pinpoint the affected area.

In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be ordered. These tests help rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms and confirm the diagnosis of tennis elbow. Imaging can also provide a clearer picture of the extent of tendon damage, aiding in the development of an effective treatment plan.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

At One Spine Chiropractic, our personalised chiropractic treatments target the underlying causes of tennis elbow, not just the symptoms. Here are the key techniques we employ:

1. Chiropractic Adjustments

During a chiropractic adjustment, the elbow joint and other connected structures are realigned to enhance joint mobility and reduce stress on the affected tendons. This process often produces the distinct “crack” or “pop” sound associated with cavitation, which helps improve function and relieve tension.

Spinal misalignments can contribute to compensatory strain in the arm and shoulder, which may worsen symptoms of tennis elbow. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractic care optimises nerve function and overall joint mechanics, indirectly supporting recovery in the elbow joint. A well-aligned spine ensures better posture and reduces undue stress on the affected area.

2.Soft Tissue Therapy for Forearm Muscles

Techniques like the Active Release Technique (ART) target the forearm muscles and surrounding connective tissue, helping to break down scar tissue and adhesions. This enhances blood flow to the affected area and supports the healing process.

3.Therapeutic Modalities for Elbow Pain

Complementary therapies, such as shock wave therapy, are sometimes used to stimulate blood flow and promote the repair of injured tendons. Ultrasound therapy can further help by reducing inflammation and enhancing tissue regeneration.

Additionally, specific exercises and physical therapy can help fix tennis elbow by promoting healing and alleviating symptoms.

4. Education and Preventative Measures

Our chiropractors educate patients on proper techniques for repetitive motions to prevent further strain on the elbow joint. Strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles are also recommended to support recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Tennis Elbow?

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that prioritises holistic healing. By addressing both the symptoms and root causes of tennis elbow, our methods can:

• Relieve pain in the affected elbow and arm
• Restore mobility and reduce stiffness
• Promote proper biomechanics to prevent further injury

At One Spine Chiropractic, we address the root causes of pain, whether it’s tennis elbow, back pain, or neck discomfort, helping you move freely and stay active.

Preventing and Managing Tennis Elbow

Prevention plays a key role in managing tennis elbow symptoms and reducing the risk of recurrence:

• Practise proper technique during activities like playing tennis or golf to avoid excessive strain on the elbow joint.
• Take regular breaks to rest the affected tendon and prevent chronic tennis elbow from overuse.
• Use ergonomic tools and a well-fitted tennis racket to minimise stress on the elbow tendons.
• Strengthen the forearm muscles and upper arm to improve flexibility and support injured tissues.
• Avoid repetitive stress, and rest immediately if you feel pain or discomfort.

If nonsurgical treatments fail to alleviate tennis elbow symptoms, surgery may become necessary. Procedures such as open or arthroscopic surgery address severe tendon damage but often require a detailed rehabilitation process. To avoid surgical intervention, seeking chiropractic care early can provide effective, non-invasive solutions to manage and prevent tennis elbow.

By prioritising prevention and considering chiropractic care, you can address symptoms proactively and reduce the likelihood of needing surgery.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

Consider chiropractic care for tennis elbow when:

• Pain Persists: Despite rest and pain relievers, symptoms of tennis elbow may indicate unresolved issues.
• Limited Mobility: Stiffness or difficulty moving the elbow joint can improve with chiropractic adjustments.
• Chronic Pain or Inflammation: Resistant symptoms benefit from techniques that reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Prevention is Needed: Chiropractors provide expert advice to avoid further strain on the affected area.

Tennis elbow doesn’t have to limit your ability to enjoy daily activities or play sports. With the right chiropractic care, you can find relief from pain, restore function, and prevent future injuries.

At One Spine Chiropractic, our experienced chiropractors is here to guide you through a tailored recovery journey.