What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is the irritation of the muscles and tendons that start on the outside of the elbow. These muscles can help bend the elbow and extend the wrist and fingers. Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive movement or trauma and is characterized by sharp elbow pain with arm movement and a constant elbow ache at rest. Recovery from a tennis elbow occurs in two stages. First, healing of the injured tissue must be initiated. This is effectively managed by manual therapies including intramuscular stimulation (IMS), acupuncture, massage, and progressive stretching. Once healing has begun, tennis elbow will only fully recover if proper exercises are performed. Specific exercises allow the muscles and tendons to rebuild to a point where pain is eliminated and full function returns. If you are having pain on the outside of your elbow, our team of talented Physical Therapists at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy would be happy to help you out. Call 403-982-5600 today to find out how we can help you gain your Momentum back!
Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.