Effective Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
As a chiropractor who works with athletes and active individuals of all kinds, I often see patients who are surprised to learn they have tennis elbow—even if they’ve never picked up a racket. Despite the name, this painful condition affects a wide range of people, from golfers and weightlifters to mechanics, painters, and desk workers. The good news? No matter the cause, there are several natural, effective treatment options for tennis elbow.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is caused by repetitive strain to the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. These tendons become irritated or inflamed due to overuse, especially from gripping, twisting, or lifting motions. Symptoms include pain on the outer elbow, tenderness, and reduced strength in the affected arm.
For athletes and active adults, this can seriously impact performance and day-to-day function. In fact, "weightlifter's elbow" is a term often used to describe similar strain and irritation from heavy lifting, especially during exercises like curls or presses that load the forearm muscles repetitively.
While tennis players made this injury famous, many others are just as vulnerable. Golfers who grip clubs tightly, people who type or use tools for hours, and gym-goers pushing heavy weights are all at risk. Any repetitive arm movement, particularly without proper mechanics or rest, can lead to this painful condition.
The good news? There are highly effective, non-invasive ways to manage and recover from this kind of elbow pain.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Chiropractic Care
One of the most effective forms of tennis elbow treatment starts with addressing joint and muscular imbalances. Chiropractic adjustments can relieve pressure on the elbow and improve alignment in the wrist, shoulder, and spine—areas that often contribute to compensatory strain. Soft tissue therapies also help restore flexibility and reduce inflammation.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a cutting-edge treatment we often use for stubborn cases of tennis or weightlifter's elbow. It uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tendons, breaking down scar tissue and boosting circulation to speed recovery. Many patients feel a measurable improvement in just a few sessions without injections or downtime.
Corrective Exercise
Strengthening the right muscles and improving movement patterns is key to preventing flare-ups. Specific rehab exercises for the forearm, grip, and shoulder can reduce strain on the elbow and improve overall function. These corrective exercises are tailored to the individual’s sport or activity level, making them especially effective for athletes and active adults.
At Core Chiropractic in Salem, we combine chiropractic care, shockwave therapy, and rehab strategies to help you recover quickly and get back to doing what you love. If you’re struggling with tennis elbow or weightlifter's elbow, schedule your appointment today and start healing the right way.
