tennis elbow (jenna)

The lateral epicondyle of the humerus is a common origin point for the forearm extensors. The tendons of the forearm extensors are often considered in combination as the extensor tendon. 

"Tennis elbow" refers to lateral epicondylitis, and is a condition in which the common extensor tendon has microtears or is inflamed, often resulting from overuse. This condition is named after its prevalence in tennis athletes, who repetitively and forcefully contract the extensor muscles during tennis. However, this condition is not exclusive to tennis players, and can occur in other scenarios as well.

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symptoms

• Pain or burning sensations
  
• Weakness (or pain) during the following movements
  • Shaking hands
  • Gripping or holding objects
  • Forearm supination (ex. turning a doorknob)
• Tenderness on the lateral side (outside) of the elbow

causes

• Overuse of the extensor muscles of the forearm
  • Especially extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB)
• Occupations with increased prevalence of Tennis elbow::
  • Painters
  • Tennis players
  • Carpenters
  • Plumbers

treatment

• Rest
• Ice
• Elbow brace
• Physiotherapy
  • Shockwave therapy is an especially useful treatment modality

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How does physiotherapy help?

• The physical adjustments made with manual therapy may help to improve mobility, reduce muscle stiffness, and minimize discomfort and pain 
• Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) induces local inflammation to improve blood flow, aid in healing, and reduce pain 
  • Promotes relaxation of the injured and surrounding muscles, reducing any pain that may be caused by spinal nerve impingement, joint compression, or muscle stiffness

• Ice/heat therapy improves blood flow and reduces pain
• Exercise prescription and modification will help in strengthening adjacent supporting muscles to relieve pain stemming from muscle imbalances or postural issues
  • Certain stretching and strengthening exercises can also help improve general function and reduce the risk of injury or further pain
  • Modification of current exercises may be helpful in the return to sport or return to work, while minimizing the risk for reinjury

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• Shockwave therapy is a particularly helpful option for individuals with Tennis Elbow, because shockwaves aggravate the injured tissues which promotes natural healing processes of the body
  • This helps with enhancing recovery and reducing pain.
  • For more information of the mechanism behind the effectiveness of shockwave therapy, click here or visit ​www.shockwavetherapyvancouver.ca. 

 For more information on these modalities and how they work, click here.