Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, refers to inflammation and irritation of the tendons that connect the forearm to the elbow. This condition typically develops due to overload and repetitive motion on the elbow, and although it is common in tennis players, it can affect anyone who puts stress on this area of the body.
Lateral epicondylitis can often improve with rest and basic treatments. But there are some cases of this condition that may require professional help. Physical therapy can be a particularly effective form of treatment for tennis elbow. It can not only reduce pain and improve mobility, but it can also potentially help prevent future injuries by promoting strength and stability in the elbow.
When to see a physical therapist for tennis elbow treatment
If you think you’ve developed tennis elbow, it’s important to cease or limit any activities that could exacerbate this condition. However, this may not be enough to recover from this condition. You may also need help from a physical therapist.
It’s time to seek help from a therapy specialist if you have the following symptoms:
- Your pain has persisted for longer than a few days to a week.
- Your pain suddenly becomes more severe.
- You’re also experiencing wrist and hand pain.
- Symptoms make it difficult to hold a cup, turn a doorknob, shake someone’s hand or perform other basic activities.
Many patients seek initial diagnosis and treatment from a doctor, such as their primary care physician. This allows them to get diagnostic testing including an X-ray or MRI. Upon diagnosis, physical therapy is a commonly sought-out treatment, whether patients are referred by their doctor or seek it out themselves.
How physical therapy can help with tennis elbow
By performing movement tests and other evaluations, a physical therapist can identify biomechanical issues that contribute to the development of lateral epicondylitis. They can then help you form a comprehensive treatment plan that can include:
- Therapeutic exercises and stretches
- Manual therapy
- Ergonomics training
- Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
- Aquatic therapy
Peak Performance offers treatment for tennis elbow
Not sure where to get physical therapy for lateral epicondylitis? Our team of therapy specialists at Peak Performance offers the care you need for this condition. We can perform a free screening on your elbow to pinpoint the root cause of your injury. Our physical therapists will then create a personalized therapy plan designed to decrease your pain and improve your elbow function.
Don’t have the time for an in-person physical therapy session? No problem! We can help you save the time it would take to drive over to see us by meeting with you through virtual therapy appointments. In addition, you can start using our therapy services even if you don’t have a referral from your doctor.
Don’t wait to start getting our help with your elbow injury. Contact us today for more information about how we can help treat it or to schedule an initial appointment.
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