Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a type of repetitive strain injury that affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow can occur in anyone who engages in activities that involve repetitive motions of the wrist and arm, not just tennis players.
The condition is typically caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outside of the elbow. This can lead to inflammation, micro-tears, and degeneration of the tendons, resulting in pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow, especially when gripping or lifting objects.
Symptoms of tennis elbow may include pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and stiffness in the elbow and forearm. In some cases, the pain may radiate down the forearm or into the wrist.
Tennis elbow can often be treated with rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises to strengthen the affected muscles and improve flexibility. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be used to help manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary to relieve symptoms and improve function.
Prevention of tennis elbow includes taking frequent breaks during repetitive activities, using proper technique and equipment when performing tasks that require gripping or twisting, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to maintain flexibility and strength in the arms and wrists.
One intervention that maybe useful for tennis elbow is acupuncture.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. The theory behind acupuncture is that the human body has a flow of energy, or "qi," that moves through channels or pathways called meridians. When the flow of qi is disrupted, it can lead to pain, illness, or other health problems.
Acupuncture needles are typically made of stainless steel and are very thin, ranging in size from 0.12 to 0.35 millimeters in diameter. They are inserted into the skin at specific points along the meridians, with the aim of restoring the flow of qi and promoting healing.
Acupuncture is often used to treat a variety of health conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, nausea, infertility, and anxiety. It is also sometimes used in conjunction with other medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or surgery, to help manage symptoms and improve overall wellness.
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. However, like any medical treatment, it does carry some risks, such as bleeding, bruising, and infection. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting acupuncture or any other alternative therapy.
Acupuncture can be a useful treatment option for relieving the pain associated with tennis elbow. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi (energy) and promote healing.
Research suggests that acupuncture may help to reduce pain and inflammation in people with tennis elbow. One study found that acupuncture was more effective than a sham treatment for reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic tennis elbow. Another study found that acupuncture combined with physical therapy was more effective than physical therapy alone for reducing pain and improving grip strength in people with tennis elbow.
If you are considering acupuncture for tennis elbow, it is important to seek out a licensed and trained acupuncturist. The acupuncturist will assess your condition and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a trained professional, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if acupuncture is a safe and appropriate treatment option for your tennis elbow.
There are several acupuncture points that may be used to treat tennis elbow. The specific points that are selected will depend on the individual's symptoms and the practitioner's assessment of their condition. Here are some commonly used acupuncture points for tennis elbow:
These acupuncture points are thought to help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain in the affected area. It is important to remember that acupuncture should be performed by a licensed and trained practitioner, and that the specific points used may vary depending on the individual's condition and overall health.
Acupuncture can be a useful treatment option for relieving the pain associated with tennis elbow. If you think you may have tennis elbow then it is important to consult with a licensed acupuncturist or healthcare provider to determine if acupuncture is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you. You can find individuals with suitable qualifications to practice acupuncture on our site, Search our database of specialists in sports injury to find the support you need.
