Elbow Rallies: A Winning Blog on Conquering Tennis Elbow

Introduction: 

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common and painful condition affecting the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, it doesn't only trouble tennis players but can occur in anyone who engages in repetitive gripping activities.

Physiotherapy has proven to be a cornerstone in the effective management and treatment of tennis elbow, supported by a wealth of research-backed evidence. In this blog, we'll delve into the scientific foundation behind physiotherapy interventions that have demonstrated efficacy in alleviating pain and restoring function in individuals with tennis elbow.

Understanding the Pathophysiology:

Before delving into specific physiotherapy treatments, it's crucial to grasp the underlying mechanisms of tennis elbow. The condition primarily involves overuse and microtrauma to the extensor tendon attachment on the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. This results in inflammation, pain, and impaired function.

Signs and symptoms:

Our patients typically complain about a persistent ache or sharp pain on the outside of the elbow, worsening during activities involving gripping or lifting. Difficulty in holding objects or performing simple tasks due to weakened grip strength.

Rest is often the first line of defence against tennis elbow. Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain allows the tendons time to heal. Modifying techniques or using ergonomic equipment can also alleviate strain on the affected area.

Physiotherapy Interventions:

Exercise Programs:

Eccentric Strengthening: Numerous studies highlight the effectiveness of eccentric exercise programs in treating tennis elbow. Eccentric exercises involve lengthening the muscle while it is under tension. This helps to improve tendon strength and resilience. Our team at Focussed Physiotherapy Castle Hill can tailor a program that includes exercises like wrist extensor eccentric loading.

Progressive Resistance Exercises:

Gradually increasing resistance during exercises aids in strengthening the affected muscles and tendons. A systematic review published in the Journal of Hand Therapy found that progressive resistance exercises significantly improved pain and function in individuals with tennis elbow. At Focussed Physiotherapy Castle Hill, we only program resistance exercises that you are comfortable with, and that are achievable to your current level of strength.

Manual Therapy:

Joint Mobilisation: At Focussed Physiotherapy Castle Hill, we may employ joint mobilisation techniques to enhance joint mobility and reduce stiffness. A study in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy demonstrated that manual therapy combined with exercise was more effective than exercise alone in reducing pain and improving grip strength.

Soft Tissue Release:

Techniques such as deep tissue massage and myofascial release target the affected soft tissues. At Focussed Physiotherapy Castle Hill, we use high quality anti-inflammatory creams to reduce the pain and inflammation in the forearm musculature, leaving you feeling great. A randomised controlled trial published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine reported significant improvements in pain and function with soft tissue mobilisation, with tennis elbow subjects.

Bracing:

Specific braces, worn around the forearm, distribute forces away from the injured extensor tendon. Research in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy indicates that counterforce braces can provide short term pain relief and improve grip strength.

Kinesiology Taping:

While evidence is mixed, some studies suggest that kinesiology taping may offer benefits in terms of reducing pain and improving grip strength. At Focussed Physiotherapy Castle Hill, we believe that kinesiology taping (when applied in a specific pattern), can be highly effective to support the affected muscles and tendons of the forearm, thus reducing your symptoms.

Education and Ergonomics:

Patient Education: Informing patients about ergonomic principles and modifying their activities can prevent further strain on the affected tissues. Studies emphasise the importance of patient education in improving longer term outcomes.

Workplace Modifications: Addressing workplace factors, such as ergonomic desk setups and proper lifting techniques, can contribute to the overall success of physiotherapy interventions.

Take Home:

The integration of evidence-based physiotherapy interventions for tennis elbow is pivotal in achieving optimal outcomes. A personalised approach that combines exercises, manual therapy, taping, and education can effectively alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals grappling with this common musculoskeletal condition.

Please contact our clinic on (02) 8223 4896 for a tailored treatment plan based on the latest research and best practices. Or you can book online via the link below.