Elbow pain
The Elbow Injury That Can Affect Anyone
Elbow pain can stem from various causes, but in this section, we'll focus specifically on one of the most common: tennis elbow (lateral epicondyle tendinopathy). It’s not just a tennis player’s issue; anyone can develop it, from DIY enthusiasts to office workers who use a mouse all day.
Tennis elbow occurs when repetitive strain leads to irritation or damage of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. The problem is that the tendon has a poor blood supply, making it harder to heal, which is why it can become a longer-lasting and more stubborn injury compared to muscle injuries. This often results in localized pain on the outer elbow and a decrease in grip strength.
In the acute phase, we focus on offloading the tendon, easing pain, and avoiding aggravating activities. As the pain subsides, we gradually reintroduce movement and strength exercises. For chronic cases, we use an evidence-based approach, starting with isometric exercises, progressing to heavy slow resistance training, and if needed, incorporating speed work for higher-intensity movements. We may also use kinesiotaping to improve pain-free strength and manual therapy to address the surrounding muscles and joints.
Tennis elbow can be a stubborn injury, but with the right management, you can get back to your favourite activities.
There are many other causes of elbow pain, so coming in for an assessment is key to finding the right treatment plan for you.
Feel free to reach out if you are unsure whether our chiropractors can assist you with your specific condition or concern. We are here to help.