TENNIS ELBOW / GOLFER’S ELBOW
Dr. Amy M. O’Donnell offers evidence-based treatment for tennis elbow & golfer’s elbow
You don’t need to be an athlete to suffer from elbow pain!
Overuse of the tendons surrounding the elbow can lead to chronic elbow & joint pain.
WHAT CAUSES TENNIS ELBOW/GOLFER’S ELBOW?
Although golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) are on opposite sides of the elbow, the conditions are similar. Both are caused by an overuse of tendons which attach to the elbow bone. However, you don't have to play golf or tennis to develop these maladies. Carrying heavy bags or laptops, pulling and lifting may contribute to either. As a result of repetitive use, the tendons thicken developing fibrotic tissue which becomes painful.
HOW IS IT TREATED?
Ice and heat are important first steps to healing. In some cases, a wrist brace is recommended so that the tendons can rest. Ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation are adjunctive therapies to help with pain control and to relax the muscles, while reducing inflammation in some cases. MLS Laser Therapy aids in the resolution by reducing pain and inflammation. Graston Technique breaks down those adhesions which form in the muscle, tendon and fascia. Trigger Point Dry Needling is an effective tool to treat elbow pain. Rehabilitative exercises help to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Chiropractic joint manipulative therapy is needed to maintain joint mobility. Kinesiotape may be used to either support the joint or allow the elbow to maintain a “stretch” so that the muscle has less stress on it.