Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow
It is a condition that manifests with inflammation of the muscles and tendons that attach the elbow area as well as pain that reflects along the forearm to the wrist. It occurs as a result of repetitive movements or repeated weight lifting. There are two types of epicondylitis, depending on the location of its appearance: internal, on the inner side of the elbow, and external, on the outer side.
It is commonly seen in people who carry out manual work continuously or have intense sports activity associated with hand overuse. In recent years, cases of epicondylitis have been reported in:
- children who use a lot of electronic games or
- in office workers who use computers and type for many hours
🎯 Therapeutic approach includes:
- kinesiotherapy
- strengthening and stretching exercises of the forearm muscles
- specialized and intense massage techniques
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FAQs
1. How many sessions does it take to see improvement?
The number and frequency of sessions are determined by the severity, duration and nature of the condition. Significant improvement is usually observed over a course of 4 to 6 sessions. However, to maintain and enhance the results additional maintenance sessions at regular intervals are recommended. These are individually tailed to the progression of the condition and the needs of the body.
2. Is the treatment combined with other methods?
Treatment is effectively combined with other methods, such as kinesiotherapy to improve range of motion, neuromuscular strengthening exercises to enhance stability and movement control, and a structured stretching program to reduce muscle tension and relieve stress on tendons, as well as organic interventions aimed at modifying activities and avoiding aggravating movements. All instructions are individually designed according to the patient's needs and the characteristics of the dysfunction, in order to achieve optimal rehabilitation. A holistic approach leads to more stable and long-lasting outcomes.
3. Which groups of people are considered at high risk for developing lateral or medial epicondylitis?
Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is more common in individuals who perform repetitive wrist extension or forearm rotation movements, such as craftsmen, plumbers, painters, typists, hairdressers, and racket sport athletes. It is also frequently seen in computer users and those who lift weights with improper technique.
Medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow) affects those who strain the wrist and finger flexor muscles. Typical high-risk groups include golfers, climbers, people who repeatedly lift heavy objects, as well as workers performing monotonous manual tasks, such as assembly line workers.
4. What therapeutic or stretching exercises are recommended for home treatment of epicondylitis?
In cases of epicondylitis, specific therapeutic exercises and stretches are recommended for safe home application, aiming to reduce symptoms and restore function of the limb. These include:
- Gentle stretching exercises of the wrist extensor or flexor muscles, depending on the type of epicondylitis.
- Eccentric strengthening exercises with light weights.
- Resistance exercises using elastic bands.
Exercises should be performed consistently without causing pain and ideally under the guidance of a qualified therapist. The goal is to strengthen the musculotendinous system and unload the irritated structures.