Not every painful elbow is a “tennis elbow” but this is the most common diagnosis. This presents as pain starting at the bony lump on the outer aspect of the elbow and radiating into the forearm. You do not need to play tennis to suffer this condition which is caused by repetitive wrist movements and gripping eg hairdressing, DIY or playing a musical instrument.
Medical research has shown that it is not always tendonitis (inflammation) but tendinopathy (a degeneration of the tendon fibres) Special movements called “eccentric exercises” can be taught by a physiotherapist to reverse these changes and alleviate the problem long term.
If the pain is on the inner aspect of the elbow it may be “golfers elbow”. However it may be referred pain from where the neck joins into the upper back, frequently aggravated by prolonged sitting. Up to 50% of elbow pains actually originate from the spine so a thorough assessment is vital to determine exactly where the symptoms are coming from. This is especially true if both elbows are affected or there are pins and needles present.
The elbow complex consists of 3 separate joints and 14 muscles pass over it so it is very prone to strain and injury. A Chartered Physiotherapist is qualified to assess and treat any elbow condition and has an extensive tool-box of methods to try such as hands-on techniques, ultrasound, acupuncture (needle or laser), strapping and exercise. To see a physiotherapist privately you do not have to be referred by your doctor.