
TENNIS ELBOW
Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterised by pain and inflammation of the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). Despite its name, tennis elbow can occur in individuals who don't play tennis but engage in activities involving repetitive arm motions and gripping such as painting, plumbing or using a computer mouse extensively.

Understanding Tennis Elbow:
Causes: Tennis elbow typically develops due to repetitive stress or overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to small tears in the tendon fibres near the lateral epicondyle. Activities that involve repetitive gripping, wrist extension or twisting motions of the forearm can strain the tendons and lead to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms:
Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, specifically near the bony knob (lateral epicondyle).
Pain worsens with activities that involve gripping, lifting or twisting movements of the forearm.
Weakness in the affected arm, particularly with gripping objects or shaking hands.
Stiffness or difficulty fully extending the forearm.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of tennis elbow is typically based on medical history, physical examination and sometimes imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain.
How Physiotherapy Can Help with Tennis Elbow:
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment approach for tennis elbow, focusing on reducing pain, improving flexibility and strength, and promoting healing of the affected tendons. Here are ways physiotherapy can help:
Pain Management: Physiotherapists use various techniques such as manual therapy (e.g. joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage), modalities (e.g. ultrasound, electrical stimulation) and ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation in the elbow.
Stretching and Range of Motion Exercises: Specific stretching exercises are prescribed to improve flexibility in the forearm muscles and tendons. Range of motion exercises help maintain or restore normal elbow joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
Strengthening Exercises: Gradual strengthening exercises focus on the muscles of the forearm, wrist, and shoulder to improve muscular endurance and support the affected tendons. Isometric (no movement), isotonic (movement through range) and eccentric strengthening exercises, which involve slowly lengthening the muscle under tension, are particularly effective for tendon rehabilitation.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, myofascial release and trigger point therapy help alleviate muscle tightness, improve tissue mobility and reduce tension in the forearm muscles.
Activity Modification: Physiotherapists provide guidance on modifying activities or sports that exacerbate symptoms of tennis elbow. They may recommend ergonomic adjustments, proper equipment use and techniques to reduce strain on the elbow during daily activities.
Biomechanical Assessment: Evaluation of posture, movement patterns and ergonomic factors that may contribute to tennis elbow. Physiotherapists assess and correct faulty mechanics to prevent recurrence and promote optimal recovery.
Functional Rehabilitation: Gradual reintroduction of functional activities and sports-specific rehabilitation to safely return to previous levels of activity. This includes progressive loading of the affected tendons to promote tissue healing and resilience.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Tennis Elbow:
Conservative Management: Physiotherapy offers non-surgical treatment options to manage symptoms and promote healing of tennis elbow.
Individualised Care: Tailored treatment plans based on the severity of symptoms, functional limitations and patient goals.
Preventive Strategies: Education on proper technique, ergonomics and exercises to prevent recurrence of tennis elbow.
In summary, physiotherapy is essential in the management of tennis elbow, providing effective, personalised treatments aimed at reducing pain, improving flexibility and strength and promoting healing of the affected tendons. Early intervention with physiotherapy can lead to significant symptom relief, functional improvement and enhanced quality of life for individuals affected by tennis elbow.