Tennis Elbow Treatment
Tennis Elbow Physical Therapy Exercises & Treatment
 Lateral and Medial Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Tennis elbow consists of an inflammation of the connective tissue in the elbow area caused by an overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm, leading to pain at the elbow joint. It can affect anyone, however it is most common with manual laborers who work with their hands (i.e., carpenters, plummers) as well as many raquet players (tennis) and golf.
The injury involves the tendons attached to the muscles that act to extend (bend back) the wrist and hand. A small tendon arises from a small area of bone at the elbow connecting to the large etensor muscles of the forearm. After repetitive use of these extensor muscles, the tendon becomes overworked and inflammed. This produces pain on the outside of the elbow.
Golfer's elbow involves muscles that attach to forearm muscles that flex the wrist and fingers. This injury produces pain on the inside of the elbow.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
- Rest: Don't aggravate the condition by continuing activity, especially if you experience pain.
- Ice: Apply ice to your elbow for 10-15 minutes.
- Stretching: Stretching will assist in preventing stiffness by breaking scar tissue that may result from inflammation.
- Physical / Occupational Therapy: The goals of physical therapy are to assist in reducing inflammation, addressing muscle imbalances to protect the injured region and prevent injury from reocurring.
- Medication: Your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory anagesic medication to control pain and inflammation. If necessary, a cortisone injection may also be used to relieve the pain and joint tenderness. This can make physical therapy more effective.
- Brace: Your physician may recommend any of several braces, supports, or molded casts designed for this problem. A brace supports local structures, thus reducing the pressure on the inflamed tendon. It should be used for protection when performing activities with the injured arm.
- Surgery: If all forms of conservative treatment fail and the pain continues to limit your ability to perform daily activities, there are different surgical options available. These include removing a portion of the damaged tendon or releasing the attachment of the affected tendon. your physician will discuss the different options with you.
Tennis Elbow Physical Therapy Exercises
Stretches:
- Wrist Flexion Stretch: Keeping elbow straight, grasp hand and bend wrist back until a stretch is felt. Hold 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.
- Wrist Extension Stretch: Keeping elbow straight, grasp hand and slowly bend wrist forward until stretch is felt. Hold 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.
Strengthening Exercises
- Wrist Flexion: Holding light weight in your hand with palm up, bend wrist up. Return slowly. Repeat 20 times.
- Wrist Extension: Holding light weight in your hand with palm down, bend wrist up. Return slowly. Repeat 20 times.
- Ball Squeeze: Squeeze a rubber ball or rolled up towel. Repeat 20 times.
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