Does Physiotherapy Work for Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the muscles in your forearm become injured or inflamed where they attach to the outer elbow. This condition can lead to pain in your forearm, wrist, and elbow. While sports enthusiasts—especially tennis and squash players—are more likely to experience it, anyone who performs repetitive motions (like using a screwdriver) can also be affected.
Though icing, resting, and taking painkillers can help, physiotherapy can take your recovery to the next level! Below, we’ll explore how physiotherapy in Hong Kong can alleviate your tennis elbow pain and get you back playing the games you love.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the tendons in your elbow, leading to swelling and potential tears. It often affects those who grip tightly, but it can happen to anyone!
What Does Tennis Elbow Feel Like?
Common signs and symptoms of tennis elbow include:
- Tenderness or pain in the elbow
- Pain that worsens with gripping, twisting motions, or while lifting something weighted
- Stiffness in the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Difficulty with activities like writing or holding objects
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow affects the extensor muscles in your forearm (outer muscles of the elbow area), responsible for extending your wrist and fingers. Repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, causing pain and tenderness in the elbow.
How Long Does Tennis Elbow Last?
Most people see improvement in 6 to 12 months. However, physiotherapy can accelerate recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence. Untreated, tennis elbow can become chronic, lasting longer.
How Can Physiotherapy Help with Tennis Elbow?
Physiotherapy aims to strengthen and improve the flexibility of your forearm muscles, helping to reduce pain. At our Physical Therapy Clinic in Hong Kong, Urban Motion Clinic, our physiotherapists will work with you to:
- Strengthen your forearm muscles
- Improve flexibility
- Suggest modifications to activities that strain your elbow
- Enhance blood flow to the tendons for faster healing
How Effective is Physiotherapy for Healing Tennis Elbow?
While tennis elbow can heal on its own, it may take up to two years. Research shows that physiotherapy techniques, like manual therapy and manipulation, effectively reduce pain, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. Studies indicate that physiotherapy can significantly accelerate recovery, allowing you to return to your activities sooner!
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Tennis Elbow
Physiotherapy exercises offer numerous benefits, including:
- Reducing pain
- Restoring normal joint movement and function
- Promoting tissue healing and restoring muscle action patterns
- Increasing muscle strength
- Improving cervical joint function
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse or injury of the elbow tendons. While rest and pain relief can help, physiotherapy is key to speeding up recovery and reducing the chance of recurrence. If you’re dealing with tennis elbow, visit our Physical Therapy Clinic at Urban Motion Clinic. We’re here to help you heal faster and get back to doing what you love! 🎾💪
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance!