Xoopla.com

This article was written by a Chiropractor from Vancouver named, Dr. Dominic Chan DC, to help people with tennis elbow

As a Chiropractor in Vancouver, I see this condition from time to time but the cases seem to go up in the summer time when more people are outside playing, or even learning, tennis. The following is a brief description of Lateral Epicondylitis, also known as "Tennis Elbow". I'll discuss the history, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of Tennis Elbow.

Description: Lateral Epicondylitis (LE) or "Tennis Elbow"

Tennis Elbow is described as pain in the lateral elbow (outsides of the elbow if arm is straight with palms up) due to tendinitis at the muscle-tendon-bone junction of the common extensor tendon and lateral epicondyle of the humerus bone.

LE is very common in tennis players;About 45% of players who play daily and 25% of players who play twice a week will have symptoms of Tennis Elbow at least some of the time. Just to give you an idea of how common it is.However , Tennis elbow is not exclusive to tennis players. Carpenters, plumbers, mechanics, office workers, bowlers and cashiers are examples of other people who may suffer from Tennis Elbow.
 

Tennis Elbow is commonly due to overuse, or repetitive motions that causes inflammation. (This of course is the hallmark of a right handed tennis player during their backhand stroke)

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis will begin with a thorough history of the patient and their activities. Often patients will report morning stiffness in the affected elbow. Also reports of weakness with simple activities like lifting groceries or turning a doorknob may also be reported.Patients should seek the care of a qualified Chiropractor or therapist for correct diagnosis a (if they specialize in sports injuries the better off you should be). Including range of motion, physical and strength tests, other specialized orthopaedic tests should be performed.The following orthopaedic tests will be helpful in diagnosing a Tennis Elbow;Mills test, Cozen's test, Book test and joint play. In fact Cozen's test is also sometimes called; the "Tennis Elbow" test.

Treatment:

Bear in mind that Tennis elbow is a condition that can be slow to respond to treatment. For treatment patients can seek the care of a Chiropractor, Physiotherapist, Physical Therapist, massage therapist or family doctor (however, going to the family doctor will probably get you a referral to the previous 4 therapist or prescription for anti-inflammatories).In the acute phase, reducing the inflammation will help considerably. A course of Rest, Ice and Compression with tape or splint can help.

(What can a Chiropractor do for tennis elbow?)

(After a Chiropractor helps the patient to bring down and reduce inflammation in the joint, he will work to restore and maintain function in the entire kinetic chain. What I would do is not only address the elbow but also look at the hands/wrist, shoulder and thoracic spine of the patient. From my experience, patients with tennis elbow will start playing or using their arm differently in hopes of reducing the pain. This, of course may start affecting other areas of the body. It is important that a doctor/therapist take a more comprehensive approach to care so that the patient can have the most complete recovery possible)

Patients should also stretch and exercise the muscles in the forearm and hand/wrist after the inflammation has subsided. Concurrent treatments such as; massage, TENS, Trigger point therapy and ultrasound can help. Treatment, recovery and rehabilitation of Tennis Elbow can last from 4-12 weeks most times.

Other helpful tips would be; for a tennis player to practice a two-handed back hand, wearing an elbow brace or support, using aspirin, and rest.

Dr. Dominic Chan DC is a Vancouver Chiropractor who's goal is to help patients find natural solutions for their aches and pains. His specialty is treating athletes but treats people from all walks of life.

If you are looking for a Chiropractor in Vancouver or want more information, please feel free to visit Dr. Chan's website www.drchanchiro.com