Important Tips to Prevent Tennis Elbow Tennis elbow (also known as lateral epicondylitis) refers to constant pain originating outside the elbow. Here are some basic tips to be followed in order to prevent tennis elbow. Tennis elbow (also known as lateral epicondylitis) refers to constant pain originating outside the elbow. It is caused due to irritation or inflammation of the tendons of the elbow. This painful condition occurs when the tendons in the elbow are overused, generally due to repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. One of the most prominent symptoms associated with this condition is a burning sensation and pain surrounding the elbow that can radiate to the forearm and wrist. Elbow pain and related discomfort once developed can last for weeks, months and years. Despite its name, this condition mostly occurs in people who are not tennis players. In fact, reports show that less than 5% of patients suffering from this condition actually play tennis. Generally, it results from daily repetitive movements from gym exercise or spending too many hours at the keyboard. There are different treatment methods for tennis elbow. These may vary from one person to another and also depend on the type and severity of pain. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective treatment approaches that help to restore the normal alignment of the elbow joints. It helps in better pain management and enhances joint flexibility. It also reduces the chances of inflammation thereby allowing the damaged tendons to heal more quickly. However, new cellular research in this field has changed the entire treatment approach for tennis elbow. In most cases, patients won’t know the need to prevent this condition unless they experience symptoms such as chronic pain and a weakened grasp. Here are some ways to beat tennis elbow – •
Address the basic cause - One of the best ways to prevent this elbow condition is not to do the activity that causes the same. Understand the specific symptoms and if it is sport- or-activityspecific you must immediately stop the activity that caused the same. It is essential to improve your technique or ergonomic set up. Consult a tennis trainer to get your workstation evaluated. These professionals can observe the hitting style and the type of racket you use and correct whatever is wrong.
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Stretching exercises – Generally, this condition occurs when the forearm muscles get too tight causing increased stiffness or inflammation of the tendons (that attach to the outside or lateral portion) of the elbow. Performing simple stretching exercises twice a day helps patients to strengthen forearm muscles thereby taking extra stress off the elbow.
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Wear a counterforce brace – Put a counter force brace during activities that involve grasping or twisting arm movements. A brace is a strap worn around forearm just below your elbow. This can relieve the overworked tendons and may distribute the pressure from muscle use throughout the arm thereby providing immediate relief. Generally, this brace is not used for prevention. But it may be recommended for those people who are at very high risk for tennis elbow.
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Topical creams - Prescription-based anti-inflammatories are effective as they reduce the side effects seen with oral medications.
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Massage - In most cases, pain may be due to repetitive movements or overuse of the elbow. Treat yourself with a high-quality massage as this may help break up scar tissue to facilitate healing.
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Avoid repeated cortisone injections – Several studies have indicated that steroid injections can provide only short term pain relief. So it is best to avoid repeated cortisone injections as they can directly damage the tendons thereby increasing risk of rupture.
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