Chiropractic Seattle: The Facts You Should Know About Tennis Elbow and Chiropractic
May 21st, 2009 | by admin |Chiropractic Seattle is concerned about the health of all of your joints, and can help to relieve your elbow pain. “Tennis Elbow” is the typical name given to elbow pain emanating from the outside or lateral side of the elbow. This problem stems from an irritation or inflammation of the tendons of one or more forearm muscles at their attachment to the bony protuberance close to the elbow joint, known as the lateral epicondyle. The medical term for this affliction is lateral epicondylitis, in essence an inflammation of the epicondyle. When the inflammation is present on the inside, or medial side, of the elbow, the condition is frequently called “Golfer’s Elbow” or medical epicondylitis. Golfer’s Elbow, however, is not as widespread as Tennis Elbow.
There are many causes for epicondylitis – not just tennis and golf – as any activity or sport that requires repetitive gripping of objects can result in this affliction. Inappropriate wrist and arm posture while carrying heavy bags, knitting, chopping food, and/or using a computer can also produce “tennis” or “golfer’s” elbow. Using awkward techniques when starting any sport, trying out new rackets or clubs, or adding to the intensity or duration of an activity or exercise can also cause the affliction.
Some cases involving epicondylitis can be related to complications farther up the arm or even in the neck. If a person has a disc condition or spinal subluxation, the nerves that give movement to the forearm muscles may become irritated causing the muscles to tense and putting marked strain on the tendon attachment(s). When this happens, it predisposes an individual to elbow pain from any of the above-mentioned causes. Complications such as further subluxations and arthritis can take place if the condition is left untreated. Evaluation and treatment by a qualified chiropractor, such as your Chiropractor can correct the affliction and help to avoid future complications.
Appropriate treatment is essential because epicondylitis seldom, if ever, resolves on its own. Determination of the exact cause of the problem and a treatment plan are extremely important. This might include modalities such as ultrasound, electro-therapy, massage, hot and cold therapies, bracing, and home stretching and exercises. Chiropractic adjustments have proved, time and time again, to be extremely successful in the most thorough management of epicondylities.