What to Do About Tennis Elbow - By Chris at Forté Physical Health

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain and discomfort in the elbow joint, making simple tasks such as lifting and gripping objects difficult. In this article we’ll explore the causes of tennis elbow, as well as some lifestyle factors and exercises that can help alleviate the symptoms.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

The most common cause of tennis elbow is overuse. Repetitive motions of the forearm and wrist, such as those used in tennis, can cause tiny tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle.

These tears can lead to inflammation and pain, which is why tennis players often suffer from this condition. However, other activities that involve repetitive gripping or twisting motions can also cause tennis elbow, such as gardening, painting, and playing certain musical instruments.

the muscles and tendons in the forearm, reducing the strain on the elbow joint.

Wrist Extension Stretch: Start by extending your arm in front of you with your palm facing down. Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers back towards your wrist, stretching the muscles in your forearm. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then release and repeat on the other arm.

Reverse Wrist Curl: Hold a lightweight dumbbell or a resistance band in your hand, with your palm facing down. Slowly lift the weight towards your shoulder, then lower it back down. Repeat for 10-15 reps, then switch to the other arm.

Forearm Flexor Stretch: Hold your arm out in front of you with your palm facing up. Use your other hand to gently press your fingers down towards your wrist, stretching the muscles in your forearm. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then release and repeat on the other arm.

Tennis elbow can be a painful and frustrating condition to deal with, but there are steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms. With a little patience and dedication, you can overcome tennis elbow and get back to doing the things you love.

If you would like more help with a condition like this, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at info@fortephysicalhealth.co.uk, or check out our website at fortephysicalhealth.co.uk.

Until next time, have a healthy and happy month!

Other factors that can contribute to tennis elbow include age, genetics, poor physical condition and medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. Trauma to the elbow can also cause damage to the tendons, leading to tennis elbow.

If you’re suffering from tennis elbow, there are some lifestyle factors that you can adopt to help alleviate the symptoms. Firstly, it’s important to avoid activities that aggravate the condition, such as those involving repetitive gripping or twisting motions. If you do need to perform these activities, take frequent breaks to rest your arm and stretch your muscles.

Secondly, maintaining good posture can help alleviate the strain on your elbow. Make sure your work station is ergonomically designed, and take breaks frequently to stretch and move your body.

Finally, make sure you’re getting enough rest and nutrition to support your body’s healing process. Getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet can help your body repair and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons.

There are several exercises that can help alleviate the symptoms of tennis elbow. These exercises work to stretch and strengthen