Do you feel a sharp pain in the outer or inner part of your elbow when you lift, grip, or shake hands? You may have Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis), which can occur not only in athletes but also in office workers, homemakers, or anyone who may have repetitive movements in their arms. These types of painful conditions complicate performing basic functions in daily life, such as carrying groceries or typing. Fortunately, most of my patients recover using advanced physiotherapy treatment. A majority do not need surgery.
What is Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow?
Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis):
Your pain on the outer side of your elbow is caused by overuse or strain of the forearm muscles.
Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis):
Pain on the inner side of your elbow and typically associated with repetitive gripping, wrist flexion, or lifting.
The mechanism of injury for both conditions is tiny tears in the tendons that the muscles attach to, resulting in inflamed tendons and their protective sheaths, causing stiffness, pain, and weakness in the arm. If the elbow pain is not resolved properly, it can lead to chronic elbow pain that may limit your mobility for the long term.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Repeated movement in the hand and wrist (i.e. typing, cooking, playing sports)
- Poor posture and ergonomics
- Heavy lifting without proper technique
- Repeated movements in certain sports (i.e. tennis, golf, badminton, cricket) even fitness at the gym
- Age (30-50 years most commonly)
Get The Best and Advanced Physiotherapy Treatments for Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow in Lahore at Physio Resource:
⬛✓ Manual Therapy & Mobilization
Gentle mobilizations of the joints and surrounding soft tissue may help improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and manage pain.
⬛✓ Shockwave Therapy (Advanced)
One of the newest technologies in physiotherapy – shockwave therapy encourages healing of the tendon, breaks down scar tissue, and facilitates healing.
⬛✓ Dry Needling
Tendon related pain occurs as a result of triggered points in the forearm musculature. Dry needling can help with managing pain and improving mobility.
✓⬛ Electrotherapy (TENS, Ultrasound, IFT)
Noninvasive techniques help reduce inflammation, promote relaxation of the muscular system, and promote tendon repair.
⬛✓ Kinesiology Taping
A special elastic therapeutic tape that can provide support to the tendons and muscular system, while reducing stress to the tissues. The use of kinesiology tape can help people move with less pain.
⬛✓ Strengthening exercises
Specific strengthening and stretching exercises for the wrist/forearm can be developed to help restore tendon health and help prevent future injury.
✓⬛ Ergonomic and Posture Training
Sometimes there is a causative factor at work in regard to our daily functioning; we can provide guidance on proper workplace set up, proper sports technique in the affected sport, and proper lifting habits to help avoid recurrence.
When to Consult an Expert?
The earliest sign for consulting a specialist is having chronic elbow pain for two weeks, or having weak arm strength or difficulty grasping objects. Prompt treatment of any of the above symptoms can prevent any permanent damage.
Meet the Author: Dr. Ahmad Bilal (Consultant Physiotherapist)
Dr. Ahmad Bilal’s musculoskeletal and sports injuries and advanced rehabilitation method is generously explained in this blog. Dr. Bilal has 7 years of clinical experience. His patient- centric approach has empowered hundreds to regain their mobility and live without pain.
Schedule your appointment
For Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow, we at Physio Resource, Lahore, use shockwave therapy, dry needling, and tailor-made exercise programmes, demonstrating a recovery without surgery. For every patient, a personalised care plan is designed, taking into account the patient’s lifestyle and specific condition.
with Physio Resource (Best Physiotherapy Clinic in Lahore) and start your journey to pain-free movement!
Physio Resource Phone No: 0304-4283442
Address: 93-A1, Gurumangat Road, Gullberg, III Lahore
Written By: Dr. Ahmad Bilal (Consultant Physiotherapist, MS NMPT)
