Common causes of elbow pain

• Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis elbow)

• Medial epicondylitis (Golfer’s elbow)

Tennis elbow originates from the outside or top of the elbow while golfers elbow originates from the inside or bottom of the elbow (less common). Even though these conditions are in different locations they have similar symptoms and are caused by a similar mechanism. The primary cause of these two conditions are by overuse or repetitive movement; e.g. hammering a nail or typing on the computer. The hand grip also plays a role in elbow pain. A poor hand grip while playing tennis (repetitive movement) may lead to tennis elbow as this places extra load on the tendons in the forearm. Similarly in golfer’s poor wrist control when hitting the ball may increase the stress through the tendons on the inside of the elbow resulting in medial pain (golfer’s elbow).

Signs & Symptoms

• Pain on the outer part (tennis elbow) or inner part of the elbow (golfer’s elbow)

• Gripping may be painful e.g. opening doors, jars

• May find pouring action (e.g. pouring milk) and/or lifting painful

• Morning stiffness

How can Physical therapist assist you?

• A thorough assessment of the joint and its surrounding structures.

• Ultrasound applied over the tender area is commonly recommended. The theory is that this deep heat increases blood flow and tissue flexibility, and may decrease pain and muscle spasms.

•Electrical stimulation, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which involves a mild electrical current that travels through electrodes placed at nerve trigger points. The objective is to mask pain signals sent by the brain to the body.

• Massage over an inflamed area, which may reduce the formation of scar tissue and help new blood vessels grow in the damaged tissue. Massage is done by making small, firm circles over the injured area.

• Manual therapy uses just the hands to cause relaxation, lessen pain, and increase flexibility. Besides massage, manual therapy includes manipulation to position joints and bones.

• Forearm braces which help take the load off the tendons which are getting overused.

• Strengthening programs which improve grip strength and aid the healing of the injured tendons.

• Education on correct techniques and ways to prevent re-occurrence of the injury.

Recovery

Tennis elbow recovery time varies with each person and may take several weeks to several months. Recovery may be faster and more successful when you follow a rehabilitation program that includes exercise and physical therapy.

Exercise and physical therapy are helpful for treating elbow pain and soreness.

Exercise and physical therapy after elbow surgery are an important part of your recovery and may promote healing and restore strength and flexibility.

Most people can improve their elbow flexibility and strength with exercise and physical therapy. Without a good rehabilitative exercise program, it is likely that tennis elbow injuries will not get better.

If exercises or physical therapy are not done correctly, there is a chance of further injury to the elbow.