Tennis elbow, as the name suggests, is an injury commonly sustained while performing activities such as playing sports (including tennis) as well as weightlifting. However, you don’t have to be an athlete to develop this injury. Tennis elbow can also affect individuals who frequently engage in (or whose job requires) repetitive elbow movements including carpentry and painting. Below, our blog outlines the basics of this injury as well as what you should do if you think you are currently suffering from tennis elbow.
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is the name commonly used for the condition known as lateral epicondylitis. It is typically caused when the overexertion of the arms or hands lead to tendon damage in the area of the elbow. The main symptoms of tennis elbow can include pain, swelling, or tenderness around the outside of the elbow as well as decreased grip. For example, a person with this condition may experience unusual pain or difficulty turning a handle to open a door.
In the majority of cases, the injury is treatable with rest and non-invasive physical therapy. If you believe that you may have damaged the tendons in your elbow, the first step to recovery is often to stop the activities that are causing your pain. Use your healthy arm for the majority of your daily tasks and consider purchasing a brace to minimize movement with your injured elbow. If the pain persists, massage and physical therapy can be effective treatments. However, each injury is different and it is recommended that you discuss new exercise and training regimens with a therapist.
Seeking Help for Chronic Pain?
If you are suffering from chronic pain due to tennis elbow or another injury, ProFysio Physical Therapy can help you find relief. When you work with us, you will receive one-on-one care from a qualified therapist who truly cares about your health and recovery. From learning about how to treat your condition to preventing further injuries, our Aberdeen physical therapists can guide you through the entire therapy and healing process.
If you are ready to find freedom from pain, call (732) 333-6360 or request an initial consultation online today. We accept most major insurance plans.