Chiropractic Treatment of Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) in Pacific Beach, San Diego

Chiropractic Treatment of Tennis Elbow

Exploring Tennis Elbow: Understanding the Symptoms

Tennis Elbow, clinically referred to as Lateral Epicondylitis, manifests as discomfort on the outer edge of the elbow. Imagine standing with your arms relaxed, palms forward; the pain typically concentrates on the thumb side of the elbow. This sensation is often described as an ache or a dull burning feeling, occasionally extending into the upper or lower arm.

Identifying Tennis Elbow: Symptoms and Causes

The defining characteristic of Tennis Elbow is exacerbated pain when exerting force with the wrist, such as when twisting a jar lid or gripping tools like tennis rackets or screwdrivers. Activities that involve repetitive arm and wrist movements—like playing tennis, driving, or even knitting—can lead to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue in the tendon attached to the outer elbow. This buildup can make everyday tasks, like lifting a coffee cup, unexpectedly painful and challenging.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Recovery

At Mayo Chiropractic, we examine the elbow and wrist to pinpoint misalignments that could aggravate the ligaments, tendons, and nerves associated with Tennis Elbow. By adjusting these joints, we aim to alleviate discomfort and facilitate healing. They also assess the neck’s spinal segments, as misalignment there can affect forearm and wrist muscles, contributing to the condition. Correcting any misalignments in the neck through precise adjustments is an integral part of the treatment process.

Steps to Recovery from Tennis Elbow

Recovery starts with an evaluation by a chiropractor, who may perform adjustments as necessary. Additionally, they prescribe specific exercises and stretches designed to stabilize the elbow and promote tissue repair. To alleviate Tennis Elbow, stretching exercises targeting the pectoral muscles and forearm extensors are highly recommended. 

Focus more on the affected side while working both sides.

Stretch videos:

Pectoral Stretch (Chest Stretch)

Forearm/Wrist Massage