Tennis or Golfers Elbow Anyone?

Elbow pain can be a painful and debilitating problem. Pain located on the medial side is referred to as “golfers elbow” or  medial epicondylitis and pain that is on the lateral side is often referred to as “tennis elbow” or lateral epicondylitis. 

Now you don’t have to play golf or tennis to develop these problems. Pain in the elbow usually occurs as a result of repetitive use from typing, hammering, grip/ lifting or swinging a club or racquet. It can occur over time or with a sudden episode.

 Symptoms include pain with; grip, turning door handles or car ignition, fully extending or bending arm, typing, using the mouse.  Swelling and tenderness are also present. Pain can range fromminor irritation to significant limitations in use of hand/ arm.

Often times treatment includes limitation of exacerbating activity, stretches, use of a forearm strap and various pain modalities like ice, electrical stimulation and iontophoresis.  Iontophoresis is a treatment that utilizes an electrical current to drive a medication into the target tissue. We have found this to be quite effective in decreasing pain. This particular treatment requires a doctor’s prescription and is administered by the physical therapist. 

We have also found that stretching and strengthening the hip further enhances the recovery from elbow pain. The hip you ask? Yes, the hips (and trunk) are the power generators for the body. Think of hitting a baseball, swinging a golf club or tennis racquet. In order to swing, lift, push, or pull forcefully you must rotate the hips and trunk to increase force generation. If unable to load the hips/trunk due to weakness or limited motion (tightness) you will likely compensate by using the arm muscles more. Over time this can lead to tissue stress and “bam” the elbow starts to hurt. By improving hip mobility and the working relationship between the elbow, shoulder, trunk and hips we have seen marked improvement in our ability to address this painful condition. Due to the fact that we sit a lot and sleep in the fetal position our hips naturally get tight and develop muscle imbalances. Like we always say, “it’s all connected.”   

Seeking a rehab professional who understands function and the relationships of human movement can greatly improve your chances of overcoming your elbow pain.

Get Strong! Stay Strong!

Chris