Are you struggling with the pain and discomfort of tennis elbow? Whether you’re an avid tennis player, a passionate golfer, or simply someone who engages in activities that involve repetitive gripping and twisting of the forearm, tennis elbow can be a debilitating condition. But fear not, because there is a solution that can help you find relief and get back to doing what you love.

Physical therapy for tennis elbow is a highly effective treatment option that focuses on reducing pain, improving strength and flexibility, and promoting long-term recovery. By implementing specific exercises, stretches, and rehabilitation techniques, physical therapy can target the underlying causes of tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, and address the associated symptoms.

Key Takeaways:

• Physical therapy is a valuable treatment option for tennis elbow relief.
• It focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, improving strength, and promoting recovery from sports injuries.
• Specific exercises and techniques, incorporating hands-on techniques, are used to address the underlying causes of tennis elbow.
• Tennis elbow can be effectively managed with physical therapy.
• Wrist splints make a big difference to pain
• Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

What are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow? (Tennis Elbow Symptoms)

Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by strain and inflammation in the tendons of the forearm. Contrary to popular belief, it is not exclusive to tennis players and can occur in individuals who engage in repetitive gripping and twisting motions of the forearm. The symptoms of tennis elbow typically include tenderness and pain on the outside of the elbow, swelling, and discomfort when moving the arm, emphasizing that chronic pain is a condition that affects many. The pain may worsen with repetitive wrist movements, especially when combined with weight bearing or lifting activities. It is worth noting that golfer’s elbow is a similar condition that affects the inside of the elbow joint near the funny bone.

When the tendons in the forearm are overworked or strained, microscopic tears can occur, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition is commonly referred to as tennis elbow due to its association with the repetitive motions involved in playing tennis. However, tennis elbow can also be caused by other activities such as painting, typing, gardening, or using tools that require a firm grip.

It’s important to recognize the symptoms of tennis elbow early on to seek appropriate treatment and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain or any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Rehabilitation and Self-Help Treatments for Tennis Elbow

Most cases of tennis elbow can be effectively managed with simple self-help treatments. These measures can help alleviate pain and promote recovery without the need to see a doctor. By following these self-help strategies, individuals can find relief from tennis elbow symptoms and aid in the healing process, especially for repetitive strain injuries like tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow.

Adapting Movements

• Lift objects with palms facing upwards and elbows bent to reduce strain on the forearm.
• Avoid repetitive gripping and twisting motions that may worsen the symptoms. Consider consulting a physiotherapist in London for advice on avoiding aggravating activities and receiving targeted exercises.

Pain Relief

• Take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to temporarily relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage instructions.
• Apply anti-inflammatory creams directly to the painful area for targeted pain relief and to reduce inflammation. Massage the cream gently into the skin.

Rest and Avoidance

• Rest the affected elbow by avoiding activities that exacerbate the symptoms. Give the muscles and tendons time to heal. – This can ideally be done using a wrist splint.
• Avoid repetitive movements and heavy lifting that strain the forearm and aggravate the condition. A physiotherapy treatment in London may also advise on ergonomic adjustments to prevent exacerbation.

By practicing these self-help treatments, individuals can typically clear up tennis elbow within about 2 weeks. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if the pain and inflammation persist or worsen, or if there are any concerns about the condition like a possible elbow fracture.

Medication and Pain Relief for Tennis Elbow Relief

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory creams are commonly used to alleviate the pain associated with tennis elbow. These medications can provide targeted relief and help individuals manage their symptoms effectively, playing a crucial role in the long-term management of tennis elbow.

Painkillers for Tennis Elbow

When experiencing pain from conditions like tennis elbow, known as lateral epicondylitis, over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective in reducing discomfort. It is important to take these medications regularly and at the recommended dose to control pain and allow for continued exercise. Remember to follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about home or at our practices physiotherapy regimes.

Anti-Inflammatory Cream for Tennis Elbow

For localized pain relief, anti-inflammatory creams can be applied directly to the affected area. These creams contain ingredients that reduce inflammation and provide targeted relief, especially beneficial for the outside of your elbow where tennis elbow causes pain. When using an anti-inflammatory cream, it is crucial to carefully read the labels and follow the recommended application instructions.

If you are pregnant or have pre-existing conditions such as asthma, indigestion, or ulcers, it is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using any painkillers or anti-inflammatory creams to ensure they are safe for you.

Steroid Injections for Tennis Elbow

If the pain from tennis elbow persists for more than 2-4 weeks, a doctor or specialist physiotherapist may suggest a steroid injection into the tender area. One injection is usually sufficient, though rest may be required for a few weeks afterward. It is possible for the pain to worsen temporarily after the injection, but this usually subsides within 48 hours.

Steroid injections provide short-term relief and may not be effective for everyone. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if this treatment option is appropriate.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Tennis Elbow

Physiotherapy can be highly beneficial for individuals experiencing tennis elbow, especially those whose pain is interfering with their daily activities and persisting over time. A physiotherapist in London specializing in elbow physiotherapy treatment can conduct a thorough assessment and create a personalized treatment plan. A skilled physiotherapist can provide a range of treatments aimed at managing pain, improving strength and flexibility, and promoting recovery.

The techniques employed during physiotherapy sessions may include:

• Massage: Therapeutic massage can help reduce muscle tension and promote blood flow to the affected area, aiding in pain relief and healing.
• Manipulation: Carefully manipulating the affected joint and surrounding tissues can help restore mobility and alleviate discomfort.
• Ultrasound: The use of sound waves can penetrate deep into the tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

Moreover, physiotherapists will guide individuals through specific exercises, employing hands-on techniques that target the affected area, aiming to restore normal movement and function. These tennis elbow physiotherapy exercises may include:

1. Wrist Extensions: Gently extend your wrist backward, holding the position for a few seconds before relaxing.
2. Wrist Flexions: Gradually flex your wrist forward, feeling a gentle stretch in the forearm muscles, useful for managing sports injuries and conditions like tennis elbow.
3. Forearm Supinations and Pronations: Rotate your forearm inwards (supination) and outwards (pronation) to improve range of motion.
4. Grip Strengthening: Squeeze a soft ball or stress ball to strengthen the grip and forearm muscles, beneficial for conditions like tennis elbow.

Additionally, the physiotherapist may recommend the use of an epicondylitis clasp, a strap worn from the elbow to the wrist to reduce strain on the elbow during repetitive hand and elbow movements.

To ensure the best results, it is crucial to continue performing the recommended exercises for at least 6-8 weeks even after the pain has subsided. This will help prevent the recurrence of symptoms and promote long-term recovery.

Other Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

In addition to medication and physiotherapy, there are other treatment options available for tennis elbow. It’s important to explore alternative therapies if traditional methods aren’t providing sufficient relief. Let’s take a closer look at three other treatment options for tennis elbow: shockwave therapy, PRP injections, and surgery.

Using Shockwave Therapy to treat Tennis Elbow

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing in the affected area. These shockwaves promote blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. The therapy is typically administered through a device that applies the shockwaves directly to the elbow. This treatment may be beneficial for individuals who haven’t experienced significant improvement with other methods.

If you’re considering shockwave therapy for tennis elbow, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and determine if this treatment option is suitable for you. The number of sessions required can vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Wrist Splint

To be worn at night and when working, can  make a huge difference to pain levels

PRP Injections for Tennis Elbow

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a regenerative medicine treatment that involves injecting a concentrated form of platelets from the patient’s own blood into the affected area. Platelets contain growth factors that promote tissue repair and regeneration, a critical component in treating sports injuries such as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. PRP injections have shown promising results in some cases of tennis elbow, although long-term effectiveness is still being studied.

During the procedure, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient’s arm and processed to separate the platelets for treating sports injuries like tennis elbow. The concentrated platelets are then injected into the injured area, stimulating the body’s natural healing process. PRP injections are typically performed as outpatient procedures and may require multiple injections over a period of time.

Surgery for Tennis Elbow

In severe and persistent cases of tennis elbow, surgery may be recommended as a last resort. The goal of surgery is to remove the damaged part of the tendon and alleviate symptoms. The specific surgical procedure may vary depending on the individual case, especially in the long-term management of tennis elbow.

Surgery for tennis elbow is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Recovery time will vary depending on the complexity of the surgery, but physical therapy is often a key component of the rehabilitation process.

Each of these treatment options has its own benefits and considerations. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which treatment option is most suitable for your specific condition.

Recovery,  Rehabilitation and Duration of Tennis Elbow

The recovery period for tennis elbow can vary significantly depending on the individual, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years. However, approximately 90% of people with tennis elbow achieve a full recovery within a year. Resting the injured arm and avoiding activities that caused the condition are crucial for the recovery process.

During the recovery period, simple treatments such as applying cold compresses and managing pain can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Additionally, physiotherapy exercises and other treatment options may expedite the recovery process and prevent future episodes of tennis elbow.

A personalized treatment plan and an accurate prognosis can be obtained by consulting with a healthcare professional. They will assess the severity of the condition and provide guidance on the most appropriate course of action to facilitate a successful recovery, making it the efficient and fastest treatment option for those suffering.

As the recovery period can vary, it is important to practice patience and follow the recommended treatment plan. With proper care and adherence to medical advice, most individuals can expect to make a full recovery from tennis elbow and resume their regular activities.

Preventing and Understanding Tennis Elbow

While it may not be possible to prevent all cases of tennis elbow, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Here are some tennis elbow prevention tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid overusing the forearm muscles and tendons by engaging in activities that involve repetitive gripping and twisting.
• Use proper technique and equipment when participating in sports or activities that put strain on the elbow.
• Take regular breaks during repetitive activities to give the forearm muscles and tendons time to rest and recover, preventing conditions like tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow.
• Gradually increase the intensity and duration of activities to allow the forearm muscles and tendons to adapt and strengthen, thus preventing conditions like tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow.
• Perform exercises that specifically target and strengthen the forearm muscles.
• Maintain overall fitness and flexibility through regular exercise and stretching.

By following these preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of developing tennis elbow and enjoy your favorite activities without the pain and inconvenience of this common condition.

How to use shockwave therapy to treat Tennis Elbow Pain?

To use extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for treating tennis elbow pain, a physiotherapist may employ this technique to provide relief from pain and stiffness. ESWT involves directing shockwaves at the affected area, stimulating the body’s natural healing process. During a session, the physiotherapist will apply the shockwaves externally to the elbow region. This treatment can often be administered in a clinic or at our practices, but some physiotherapists may offer home visit physiotherapy for added convenience. Don’t let tennis elbow hinder your daily routine; schedule an appointment today. ESWT has shown promising results in reducing pain and improving function for individuals suffering from tennis elbow, offering a non-invasive alternative to surgery. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal results, and the physiotherapist will typically monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

What is Lateral Epicondylitis?

Conclusion

Physical therapy is a crucial element in the treatment and recovery of tennis elbow. For individuals with mild symptoms, simple self-help measures like adapting movements and taking painkillers can provide relief. However, in more severe cases, a comprehensive approach may be needed.

Steroid injections, physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, and PRP injections are among the treatment options that healthcare professionals may suggest for managing chronic pain, including at practices in Moorgate Monument EC3. These interventions, including manual therapy and physio, can help manage pain, improve strength and flexibility, and promote healing in conditions like tennis elbow.

The recovery period for tennis elbow varies, with most individuals experiencing a full recovery within a year. Although the process may take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months, adhering to a treatment plan and following through with recommended exercises and preventive measures can significantly contribute to long-term recovery.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the best course of action for your individual case. By implementing appropriate physical therapy and taking proactive steps, you can recover effectively from tennis elbow and minimize the risk of future episodes.

FAQ

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by strain to the tendons in the forearm, leading to inflammation and pain in the outer part of the elbow. It is not limited to tennis players and can occur from activities that involve repetitive gripping and twisting of the forearm, often leading to conditions like tennis elbow and causing pain.

What are the symptoms of tennis elbow?

Symptoms of tennis elbow include tenderness on the outside of the elbow, swelling, and pain when moving the arm, indicating that pain is a common problem associated with this condition. The pain can worsen with repetitive movements of the wrist, especially when combined with weight.

What are some self-help treatments for tennis elbow?

Adapting movements to reduce strain on the elbow, taking painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen, and applying anti-inflammatory creams directly to the painful area can help alleviate symptoms of tennis elbow.

How can medication provide relief for tennis elbow?

Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can provide temporary pain relief, while anti-inflammatory creams can offer targeted relief when applied directly to the painful area. It is important to read the labels and consult with a healthcare professional for any potential side effects or contraindications.

What are steroid injections used for in tennis elbow treatment?

Steroid injections may be recommended if pain from tennis elbow persists. These injections provide short-term relief and are typically administered once. Some temporary worsening of pain may occur, but it usually subsides within 48 hours.

How can physiotherapy help with tennis elbow?

Physiotherapy can manage pain, improve strength and flexibility, and promote recovery. Techniques such as massage, manipulation, and ultrasound may be used, along with targeted exercises to restore normal movement. An epicondylitis clasp may also be recommended to reduce strain during hand and elbow movements.

What are some other treatment options for tennis elbow?

Other treatment options include shockwave therapy, which applies high-energy shockwaves to relieve pain and promote movement; platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use concentrated platelets to promote healing; and surgery to remove the damaged part of the tendon and alleviate symptoms.

How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow?

The recovery period for tennis elbow varies but typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years. Approximately 90% of individuals make a full recovery within a year. Resting the injured arm, avoiding aggravating activities, and following recommended treatments are crucial for recovery.

What can be done to prevent tennis elbow?

To reduce the risk of tennis elbow, it is important to avoid overusing the forearm muscles and tendons. This can be achieved by using proper technique and equipment, taking regular breaks, gradually increasing activity intensity, and maintaining forearm strength and flexibility through exercises.

Is physical therapy an effective treatment for tennis elbow?

Yes, physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment and recovery of tennis elbow. Exercises and other treatments provided by a physiotherapist can help manage neck pain, improve strength and flexibility, and prevent future symptoms, using hands-on techniques in our practices in SW1 or Clapham SW4.

Image Credits – Freepik