One might assume that tennis elbow is a condition that tennis players often suffer from. But to your surprise, it can affect everyone, especially within the working-age population, such as individuals with desk jobs or carpenters.
People often complain of pain around the outer aspect of the elbow that could trail down to the forearm. This discomfort typically worsens with repetitive wrist movements. Patients may also report soreness around the outer area of the elbow. They would also have difficulty holding onto objects for too long due to reduced grip strength.
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is often caused by overuse of the wrist, which causes inflammation of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon.
Unfortunately, rest is not the only solution to recovering from this condition. However, it is a self-limiting condition, i.e., a condition that would resolve without surgery or medications in most cases. Hence, it is not something you should worry about.
HOW CAN TENNIS ELBOW BE TREATED?
You can begin by applying an ice pack at home for around 10 to 15 minutes, repeating this several times throughout the day. This will decrease the pain and inflammation.
Additionally, avoid activities or movements that aggravate the pain.
If self-care measures aren't providing relief, the next step would be to consult a physiotherapist for further evaluation and treatment.
PHYSIOTHERAPY MANAGEMENT
The primary goals of physiotherapy sessions typically include:
Educating patients regarding pain control methods
Reducing pain levels
Strengthening of muscles
Improving mobility
Once the goals of the patient is well understood, the therapist might take the following measures-
Educate the patient on positions that could exacerbate or relieve their pain and activities to be avoided that could further irritate the muscle.
Provide various pain-relieving modalities, including icing, therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, low-level laser therapy, etc.
Use mobilization as an effective technique to alleviate pain and enhance mobility.
Give taping to reduce pain and swelling and support the muscles and joints.
Prescribe strengthening exercises for the wrist and shoulders, as weak muscles around these joints may be contributing factors to the pain.
Prescribe a brace or splint to support the joint and alleviate pain, if required.
This condition could be cured within 6 to 12 months with adequate rest and treatment.
Everyone must know that there isn't an immediate cure for tennis elbow. Therefore, it's essential to establish realistic goals and gradually progress through rehabilitation.
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wow! so informative🤗