Tennis Elbow Troubles? Here's How to Treat It and Get Back on Track

Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain around the outside of the elbow. It typically results from repetitive motions that strain the tendons in the forearm. Though it’s commonly associated with tennis players, anyone can develop tennis elbow due to activities that involve repetitive arm movements.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow refers to the inflammation of the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. These tendons help in extending the wrist and fingers. Repeated motions such as gripping, lifting, or twisting can put excessive strain on these tendons, leading to pain and discomfort.

Though this injury is common in athletes, it’s also prevalent in people whose jobs or hobbies involve repetitive arm movements. Whether you're lifting weights, painting, or even typing, you can be at risk of developing tennis elbow.

Tennis Elbow Symptoms

The symptoms of tennis elbow can vary from mild to severe. Common tennis elbow symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness

• Weak grip

• Pain while gripping or lifting

• Swelling

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional advice for the right tennis elbow treatment.

Tennis Elbow Treatment

Treating tennis elbow involves a combination of methods to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent the condition from worsening. Some common tennis elbow treatments include:

1. Rest and Ice: Resting the affected arm and applying ice to the elbow can help reduce inflammation and pain.

2. Tennis Elbow Brace: A tennis elbow brace is often recommended to provide support and reduce strain on the tendons. The brace works by applying pressure to the forearm muscles, which can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury.

3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications can help reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.

4. Physical Therapy: One of the most effective treatments for tennis elbow is physical therapy. Specific exercises for tennis elbow can help strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve flexibility.

5. Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

6. Surgery: Surgery is rarely needed, but it may be considered if other treatments have failed after six to twelve months of treatment.

   
   

Tennis Elbow Supportive Therapy

In addition to physical therapy, other supportive therapies can help manage tennis elbow. Some people find relief from heat or cold therapy, massage, or acupuncture. These methods help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing in the affected area.

One supportive therapy that’s gaining popularity is shockwave therapy. This involves using high-energy sound waves to promote healing and reduce pain in the tendons of the elbow. Your healthcare provider will be able to recommend the most appropriate tennis elbow supportive therapy based on your condition.

How Injuries Care Can Help

Injuries Care connects you with healthcare providers who specialize in treating conditions such as tennis elbow. If you're experiencing elbow pain and suspect tennis elbow, Injuries Care can help you find professionals who will create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Whether you need advice on tennis elbow braces, physical therapy, or advanced treatments, Injuries Care can help you find the right provider. 

Tennis elbow can be a frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and exercises, most people can recover fully. Early intervention is key to preventing the condition from becoming more serious. If you’re struggling with tennis elbow symptoms, don’t hesitate to explore your treatment options.

Remember, Injuries Care is here to help, take the first step toward healing today!