Understanding Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects many people—not just tennis players! While it’s named after the sport, tennis elbow can occur in anyone who performs repetitive arm and wrist movements. At Vida Chiropractic in Hixson, TN, we understand the discomfort this condition causes and offer advanced treatment options like shockwave therapy to help you find relief.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that causes inflammation and microtears in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the outer part of your elbow. These tendons help control movements in your wrist and arm, and overuse or strain can lead to pain and discomfort in the area. Though athletes, particularly tennis players, are prone to this condition, it also affects non-athletes who engage in repetitive motions such as painting, typing, or using tools.

How Do You Get Tennis Elbow?

You don’t need to be swinging a racket to develop tennis elbow. In fact, any activity that involves repetitive arm and wrist movement can put you at risk. Common causes include:

•Repetitive gripping or lifting (especially with poor technique)

•Occupational strain, such as carpentry or plumbing work

•Prolonged computer use or typing

•Sports that require repetitive arm motions, like tennis, squash, or weightlifting

Tennis elbow often develops gradually over time. You may not notice the strain right away, but as the tendons become overworked, the pain can intensify.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

If you’re experiencing tennis elbow, you might notice:

•Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow

•Weakness in your grip strength

•Discomfort when lifting or bending your arm

•Pain when performing activities like gripping objects, shaking hands, or typing

The symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that affects your daily activities. If left untreated, the condition may worsen, making it difficult to perform even simple tasks.

Common Treatments for Tennis Elbow

There are several treatment options available to help manage and heal tennis elbow. These include:

•Rest: Allowing your elbow time to heal by avoiding repetitive activities

•Ice therapy: Reducing inflammation with ice packs applied several times a day

•Physical therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the elbow to improve function and reduce strain

•Braces or supports: Wearing an elbow brace to limit movement and allow healing

•Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain and swelling

Shockwave Therapy: A Revolutionary Treatment for Tennis Elbow

At Vida Chiropractic, we take tennis elbow treatment a step further with shockwave therapy. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the damaged tendons. This advanced therapy promotes tissue repair, improves blood circulation, and reduces pain. It’s an ideal option for those who want to avoid surgery or medication and are seeking faster recovery.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy works by delivering high-energy sound waves to the affected area. These waves stimulate your body’s natural healing process by increasing blood flow and breaking down calcified tissues that may be contributing to the pain. Most patients experience noticeable relief after just a few sessions, and the recovery time is much shorter than with other traditional treatments.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow

•Non-invasive: No surgery or injections are required

•Minimal side effects: No need for medication with harsh side effects

•Fast recovery: Many patients see improvement within a few weeks

•Long-lasting results: Promotes long-term healing, not just symptom relief

Get Relief from Tennis Elbow at Vida Chiropractic in Hixson, TN

If you’re suffering from tennis elbow and are looking for an effective, non-invasive treatment, consider shockwave therapy at Vida Chiropractic. Our experienced team is here to help you get back to your daily activities pain-free. To schedule an appointment, call us at (423) 475-6196 or book online here.