 Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow, as it is commonly know, refers to pain felt around the outer side of the elbow. It is often long-standing pain, persisting for months or even years depending on activity, unless treatment is sought.
The term Tennis Elbow is a poor one, as it is very general and actually includes a number of different conditions. Also, the condition is more common in non-tennis players than tennis players.
A common condition causing elbow pain is “Extensor Tendinosis”. This is actually a degeneration of the tendons around the elbow. These tendons have a poor blood supply, and when exposed to excessive use undergo degeneration and scar tissue formation. Apart from being painful in itself, this process makes the tendon more susceptible to small tears, which can cause inflammation and adds to the painful picture.
It is also common that some or all of a person’s elbow pain may be “referred pain” (i.e. pain coming from another area). Common sites that refer pain to the elbow are the joints and muscles of the neck, upper back, and shoulder.
Nerve entrapment is another common cause of symptoms, where a local nerve becomes caught as it passes close to a muscle.
Once the exact cause of the pain has been determined, treatment generally consists of joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, local electrotherapy, and a home stretching and strengthening program. A pressure strap may be used to reduce the pressure on the tendons during the rehabilitation process, and a modified fitness program may be required.
Elbow pain can become a long standing problem, but this need not be the case with appropriate assessment and treatment by a physiotherapist.
FFor further information on tennis elbow or any other sporting injury, you can make enquiries to a SSM Physiotherapist on 9583 5248 or via email physio@sportsphysio.com.au
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