Tennis Elbow Treatment in Singapore

Elbow pain is a common issue affecting people of different ages, particularly those who engage in repetitive arm movements or sports. This pain can result from various conditions such as overuse injuries, trauma, or medical issues impacting the elbow joint and surrounding tissues. Elbow pain treatment is crucial for restoring function and alleviating discomfort.

Lateral Epicondyle

Lateral epicondyle pain, commonly known as tennis elbow, occurs on the outer side of the elbow. This condition is typically caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to inflammation and pain.

Medial Epicondyle

Medial epicondyle pain, or golfer's elbow, affects the inner side of the elbow. Like tennis elbow, this condition results from repetitive stress and strain on the forearm muscles, causing discomfort and tenderness.

Elbow Pain Symptoms

  • Persistent or intermittent pain or tenderness around the elbow.
  • Swelling and inflammation making the elbow appear larger.
  • Difficulty moving the elbow joint, especially when extending or flexing the arm.
  • Weakness in the forearm or wrist, impacting grip strength and daily tasks.
  • Stiffness in the elbow hindering free movement.

Causes of Elbow Pain

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is the inflammation of tendons around the elbow, often due to overuse or repetitive movements. This condition can cause significant discomfort and restrict movement.

Arthritis

Arthritis can cause elbow pain due to inflammation of the elbow joint, leading to stiffness and swelling. Different types of arthritis can affect the elbow.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small sac filled with fluid that cushions the elbow joint. This condition can result from repetitive motion or direct trauma.

Injuries

Elbow injuries can result from trauma or accidents, causing pain and limiting movement. Common injuries include fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue damage.

One-time Injuries

Dislocated Elbow

A dislocated elbow occurs when the bones in the joint are forced out of their normal positions. This type of injury usually results from a fall or direct impact.

Fractured Elbow

A fracture in the elbow involves a break in one or more of the bones that form the elbow joint. This injury often requires immobilization or surgery to heal properly.

Strains & Sprains

Strains and sprains involve overstretching or tearing of muscles and ligaments around the elbow. These injuries can occur due to sudden movements or heavy lifting.

Lifting Weights

Improper lifting techniques or excessive weights can cause elbow injuries. Ensuring proper form and gradually increasing weight can help prevent these injuries.

Wear-and-Tear Injuries

Bursitis

Repeated movements can lead to bursitis, causing pain and swelling. Activities that involve constant elbow use can aggravate this condition.

Tennis Elbow & Golfer’s Elbow

These conditions are due to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to pain and tenderness. Both conditions can significantly impact daily activities and sports performance.

Trapped Nerves

Nerves around the elbow can become trapped or compressed, causing pain and numbness. This can result from repetitive motions or direct pressure on the nerves.

Stress Fractures

Repetitive stress can cause small cracks in the bones of the elbow. These fractures often occur in athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive arm movements.

UCL Injury

Injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) often occurs in athletes and can cause significant pain and instability. This injury is common in sports that involve throwing.

Medical Conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation and pain in the elbow joints. This condition can lead to chronic pain and joint damage.

Osteoarthritis

Degeneration of cartilage in the elbow joint leads to pain and stiffness. This condition typically affects older adults but can occur in younger individuals with joint injuries.

Psoriatic Arthritis

A type of arthritis affects some people with psoriasis, causing joint pain and swelling. This condition can affect various joints, including the elbow.

Juvenile Arthritis

Arthritis affects children, leading to joint pain and inflammation. This condition requires early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term joint damage.

Reactive Arthritis

Arthritis is triggered by an infection in another part of the body. This condition can cause pain and swelling in the elbow and other joints.

Gout

A type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint. This condition can cause severe pain and swelling in the elbow.

Diagnosis

Elbow pain diagnosis involves a thorough examination by a healthcare professional, including a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

Risk Factors of Elbow Pain

  • Age: Elbow pain is more common in older adults due to wear and tear on the joints.
  • Repetitive activities: Jobs or sports that involve repetitive arm movements can increase the risk of elbow pain.
  • Poor technique in sports or activities: Incorrect form can strain the elbow and lead to injury.
  • Previous injuries: Past elbow injuries can make the joint more susceptible to pain and further injury.
  • Medical conditions such as arthritis: Conditions like arthritis can predispose individuals to elbow pain.

Elbow Pain Treatment

Treatment options for elbow pain include:

  • Rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, allowing the elbow to heal.
  • Ice application to reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Compression and elevation to manage swelling and support the elbow.
  • Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.
  • Pain relief medications to manage discomfort.
  • Sports massage therapy to relieve muscle tension and promote healing.
  • Shock wave therapy to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

Request an Appointment

If you are experiencing elbow pain, book your appointment now with Sports Massage Clinic for a thorough consultation, diagnosis, and custom treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Self-Care / Preventions

  • Use proper techniques in activities to avoid straining the elbow.
  • Strengthen and stretch muscles around the elbow to enhance support and flexibility.
  • Take regular breaks to avoid overuse and reduce the risk of injury.
  • Use protective gear during sports to prevent elbow injuries.

Basic Exercises for Tennis Elbow

  • Wrist Extension Stretch: Hold your arm straight in front of you, gently pulling back on the hand to stretch the forearm muscles.
  • Wrist Flexor Stretch: Extend your arm, palm facing up, and gently pull back on the fingers to stretch the underside of the forearm.
  • Fist Clench: Squeeze a softball or rolled-up towel to strengthen the forearm muscles.
  • Towel Twist: Twist a towel as if wringing out water to build forearm strength.
  • Finger Stretch: Place a rubber band around your fingers and thumb, and slowly open and close your hand to strengthen the muscles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Effective tennis elbow treatment includes rest, ice application, physical therapy, and in some cases, medications or injections. Proper rehabilitation exercises are also essential for recovery.
Healing time varies but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to the treatment plan.
Yes, massage can help reduce pain and improve function by relieving tension in the muscles and improving blood flow. It is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.