Tennis Elbow: Understanding and Overcoming this Common Adversary
Whether you're a seasoned tennis player, a gardening enthusiast, or a do-it-yourself aficionado, you may have encountered a persistent elbow pain that simply refuses to subside. This discomfort, often referred to as Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis, is an all too common adversary that can significantly impact your daily activities.
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness in the outer part of the elbow. Contrary to what its name suggests, this ailment isn't exclusive to tennis players. It affects people from various walks of life, including plumbers, painters, chefs, and even computer programmers.
The pain of Tennis Elbow emanates from inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles on the outside of the elbow. This inflammation is akin to an overworked car engine overheating due to excessive use.
The primary cause of Tennis Elbow is repetitive stress and overuse of the arm, particularly involving twisting motions. Swinging a tennis racket, painting a mural, or even typing on a keyboard can put your elbow tendons under persistent strain, leading to this condition.
The most prominent symptoms of Tennis Elbow include pain and tenderness in the bony knob on the outside of your elbow. This discomfort may extend into the upper or lower arm, disrupting your comfort and daily activities.
Fortunately, Tennis Elbow is not a life sentence. There are several ways to combat this condition, and they don't necessarily involve giving up your favourite activities.
Rest is a crucial part of recovery. Your elbow, just like any other part of your body, needs time to recover from the constant strain.
Physiotherapy can be highly beneficial in treating Tennis Elbow. A physiotherapist can guide you through exercises designed to stretch and strengthen your muscles, thereby reducing the strain on your tendons.
Applying an ice pack to your elbow for 15 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This simple, at-home remedy can provide immediate relief.
Prevention is always better than cure. Ensure you use proper form and technique in your activities, take regular breaks, and warm up before starting any strenuous task.
Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis is a common condition, but it doesn't have to be a constant pain. With the right knowledge, care, and preventative measures, you can keep this common adversary at bay. Remember, your health is in your hands, or in this case, your elbow!
