Elbow Pain Treatment

In this article, we will discuss two common forms of elbow pain treatment. These two forms of elbow pain are “tennis elbow” and “golfers elbow,” but don’t be confused by their names. 

While these forms of elbow pain are typically found in athletes of these sports, you’ll soon learn that these conditions and their associated symptoms can be experienced by people outside of these activities as well.

In a moment we will take a closer look at these two forms of elbow pain treatment. But before we do that, please remember to seek out trained medical help when you are experiencing pain or discomfort. 

Contact our physical therapists to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing elbow pain or discomfort. 

If the pain is the result of a sports injury, then you may want to look into a sports injury physical therapy program to ensure you are getting the right treatment for healing and can return to physical activity as soon as possible.

Tennis Elbow is Caused by Overuse

Lateral epicondylitis, also known as “tennis elbow,” is an overuse syndrome. This occurs when there is pain or inflammation on the outside of the forearm near the elbow. The tendon, which connects muscle to bone, might be partially torn at or near the place where it connects to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow (called the lateral epicondyle). 

Although tennis elbow most commonly affects people in their dominant arm, it can occur in either or both arms. It is caused by repeated motions of the wrist or forearm. 

The injury is called “tennis elbow” because of its common occurrence in the sport. The violent extension of the wrist, like during a backhand hit, causes the condition. However, any activity that involves repetitive twisting of the wrist, like using a screwdriver, can also be responsible.

The most common symptoms of tennis elbow are as follows:

• Elbow pain that gradually worsens
• Weak grasp
• While grasping or twisting an object, pain radiates from the outside of the elbow to the forearm and back of the hand

Golfer’s Elbow Can Affect More Than Just Golfers

This condition, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a very similar injury to tennis elbow, but on the inside of the elbow. Due to overuse, the tendon tears near the region where it connects to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow (called the medial epicondyle). 

As with tennis elbow, a variety of people experience this injury. Tennis players and others who use their wrists or clench their fingers repeatedly can develop this condition. 

It is caused by damage to the muscles and tendons that control the wrist and fingers. The damage is caused by repetitive or excess stress on the wrist and fingers. Activities like golf, throwing sports (pitching), racket sports, and simple things like typing, hammering, or painting can lead to this injury.

The most common symptoms of golfer’s elbow are as follows:

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
• Pain radiating to the inner side of the forearm
• Stiffness in elbow
• Pain and difficulty in making a fist
• Weakness in hands and wrists

Contact Mid-County Physical Therapy For Elbow Pain Treatment Today

When you are experiencing elbow pain or discomfort it is best to speak with a trained physical therapist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

This is how our team of trained professionals can help you.

Our physical therapists will help ensure that you are getting the right treatment so the healing process can occur. 

Call Mid-County Physical Therapy at (703) 763-3922 to schedule an appointment today.