Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are common conditions that can impair function and cause pain in the forearm tendons. Despite their names, these conditions can affect anyone who frequently uses their elbows and arms. Effective physical therapy techniques can help with elbow pain management, function restoration, and recurrence.
Understanding Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
A common symptom of tennis elbow, also called lateral epicondylitis, is pain on the outside of the elbow. Overuse causes inflammation in the extensor tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. Repetitive wrist extension and grabbing motions might cause this condition. Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is a condition that causes pain on the inside side of the elbow. Overuse causes inflammation in the flexor tendons that connect the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Common tasks such as gripping and repetitive wrist flexion can cause this condition.
Physical Therapy Techniques for Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
The first line of treatment for these conditions is to rest the affected arm and minimize activities that aggravate the pain. As a result, there is less inflammation and less tendon injury. Applying cold packs to the affected area many times a day for 15 to 20 minutes will help ease the pain and minimize inflammation. After the initial pain has passed, heat therapy can be used to promote blood flow and aid in recovery.
Tennis and Golf Elbow Physical Therapy Stretching Exercises
Easy stretching routines might help the affected tendons become more flexible. Stretching your arm out in front of you with the palm pointing downward is known as a wrist extensor stretch (for tennis elbow). Gently press your fingers down and back with your other hand until your forearm feels stretched. Stretching your wrist flexor, often known as a golfer’s elbow, entails holding your arm out in front of you with the palm facing up. Gently press your fingers down and back with your other hand until the underside of your forearm stretches.
Elbow Strengthening Exercises Through Physical Therapy
Strengthening the muscles around the elbow can help support the tendons and prevent future injuries. Eccentric wrist exercises involve slowly lowering weight after lifting it, focusing on the controlled extension of the wrist. This technique is particularly effective for tendon rehabilitation. Wrist extension (for tennis elbow) involves holding a lightweight (e.g., a dumbbell or a can) in your hand with your palm facing down. Slowly lift your hand up and then lower it back down with control. Wrist Flexion (for golfer’s elbow) includes holding a lightweight in your hand with your palm facing up. Slowly lift your hand up and then lower it back down with control.
A physical therapist’s manual therapy methods, like soft tissue massage and mobilization, can assist in increasing tissue mobility, improve circulation, and lessen discomfort. By spreading the stresses away from the tendon attachment, a counterforce brace or strap can also help lessen the strain on the impacted tendons. Another option for immobilizing the wrist and facilitating tendon healing is to use wrist splints.
By applying deep heat to the tissues using sound waves, ultrasound therapy can improve blood flow, lessen discomfort, and hasten the repair of injured tendons. By delivering electrical impulses to the nerves through the skin, techniques like Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) can help control pain by lessening the perception of pain.
The expert staff at Evolve Physical Therapy in Baton Rouge is here to help you treat your elbow pain. Schedule an appointment today and get back to doing what you enjoy without pain.
