Introduction:
Elbow pain is a common complaint among individuals engaged in repetitive arm motions, whether it’s from sports like tennis or activities such as gardening or typing. One prevalent cause of elbow pain is tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis. Despite its name, this condition doesn’t just affect tennis players; it can impact anyone whose lifestyle or occupation requires repetitive forearm motions. In this blog, we’ll dive into the basics of tennis elbow, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment approaches.
Understanding Tennis Elbow
Lateral elbow tendinopathy stems from overuse of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle at the outer elbow. This overuse can lead to tendon degeneration rather than inflammation. Tennis elbow typically presents with pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Here are common symptoms to look for other than your typical lateral elbow pain:
- Weak Grip Strength: Patients often report difficulty gripping objects, which can impact daily tasks.
- Pain with Wrist Extension: Movements like turning a doorknob or lifting items may aggravate symptoms.
Why Eccentric Strengthening?
Eccentric strengthening, in which a muscle lengthens under tension, has been successful in treating other tendinopathies, such as Achilles and patellar. In tennis elbow, eccentric exercises have shown to be more effective than traditional strengthening methods. Eccentric contraction elongates the muscle-tendon unit, relieving tendon tension, reducing pain, and promoting healing by stimulating collagen production and improving tendon alignment.
Practical Application and Recommendations
For clinicians and patients alike, incorporating eccentric strengthening as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for tennis elbow is promising. Eccentric strengthening, therefore, works best as part of a multimodal program, particularly for those whose daily activities demand high levels of forearm and wrist strength. Preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow, especially for individuals who engage in high-risk activities. Consider these tips: ergonomic modifications can reduce repetitive strain on the elbow.