What is Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow (Epicondylitis)?
Epicondylitis affects the muscles surrounding the elbow, the tendons and the epicondyle
that the tendon is attached to. It is the inflammation of the bony areas of the
elbows (Epicondyles). In the case of tennis elbow, the pain is located on the outside
of the elbow (Lateral Epicondyle) and in golfer’s elbow the area affected is on
the inside (Medial Epicondyle).
Risk factors for tennis elbow / golfer's elbow linclude the following:-
- Age (more common in adults between the ages of 20 - 40)
- Occupation ( usually found in occupations that require strenuous, repeated, forearm
movement
- Sport participation that requires twisting of the forearm (tennis, golf, squash,
etc.)
- Fitness (people with poor muscle tone)
Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow is caused by a partial tearing of the tendon an/or
the attachment of the tendon to the bone. This usually occurs through: -
- Chronic, repeated, stresses on the tendons and attachments.
- Sudden strain (trauma) to the forearm.
What Are the Symptoms of Epicondylitis?
- Pain and tenderness over the elbow.
- Weakened grip.
- Pain when twisting the hand and/or forearm (ie. Tennis, using a screwdriver, etc.)
While the symptoms of tennis elbow / golfer's elbow can be debilitating, they
are not life threatening. Symptoms may vary, depending on the level of physical
activity, time of day, and the weather. Prevention Before playing sports (tennis,
etc.) ensure that you are warmed up and that you are fit. Exercise the forearms
to condition them gradually.
Allopathic Treatment Options
Resting the affected arm, applying ice packs, and taking painkillers and/or anti-inflammatory
drugs. Ultrasound treatment may also help to reduce inflammation. In severe cases,
injections of corticosteroids into the joint capsule may be required.
Complementary Treatment Options
With over 13 years experience in treating sports injuries, Des knows that Shiatsu has an excellent success
rate in the treatment of tennis elbow and golfer's elbow. Using finger pressure
on appropriate acupuncture points along with gentle stretching and manipulation, Shiatsu produces an increase in mobility while reducing pain.
Pro-Holistic provides Shiatsu,
Healing Chi Kung therapy, on-site massage, Stress Mangement courses, and Stress Mangement workshops. We also provide tuition in Chi Kung,
Tai Chi, Neijia,
and self defence.