Dr. Hayden Cohen
Tennis Elbow
After the inspirational performances at this year’s Australian Open there’s the usual rush to get some of those fresh new tennos’ bouncing around on the court. Naturally, now’s about the time of year that that we see a few ‘dicky’ elbows walking in the door at the clinic.
What is tennis elbow?
A tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis in medical speak, is an irritation and/or inflammation of the tendon group that attaches to the outside of your elbow onto the humerus bone.
How can it develop?
Excessive use of these muscles through serving, or hitting the ball as well as the impact and vibration from the racquet are what traditionally gives this its name. Funnily enough, that nice barista that makes your coffee after your tennis match may also be suffering the same problem, from the repetitive actions required to make coffee all day! As could your friend at the checkout in the supermarket, from the constant turning of items across the scanner!
Underlying issues with thoracic and cervical spine affecting wrist, hand and shoulder mechanics can also contribute to the development of tennis elbow, as well as delay or prevent full healing.
Managing and treating tennis elbow:
Simple self – management can initially involve ice to settle inflammation, heat to promote blood flow and stretches for tight regions. Then strength and conditioning for the wrist, hand and shoulder regions can help immensely. Use of elbow straps or taping may be useful in the short term or as an adjunct to other treatments.
Osteopathic treatment looks at optimising body mechanics to support the healing and recovery of the elbow, looking globally to support locally. Local treatment to alleviate muscle tension and tightness associated with inflammation and promote drainage and blood flow may also be effective in settling down irritation and promote healing.
And, when it comes down to it, prevention is key. So, a few pointers on that serve and power slide backhand mightn’t go astray either.
If you would like to book an appointment or just have a few questions
contact us: PH: 5215 1106
E: health@quayosteo.com.au