Elbow Pain: Tennis Elbow
Physiotherapy for tennis elbow involves a combination of exercises and treatments to reduce pain, improve function, and strengthen the affected area. Here are some key components of physiotherapy for tennis elbow:
Exercises
- Wrist Extension Stretch: Extend your arm with the palm facing down, then use your other hand to gently bend the wrist downward
- Eccentric Forearm Strengthening: Using a light dumbbell (1-1.5kg), lower your hand slowly from a wrist-extended position to a flexed position
- Wrist Range of Motion: Perform gentle wrist flexion and extension movements to improve mobility
- Isometric Wrist Extension: Hold your wrist in a static extended position to build strength.
- Radial/Ulnar Deviation: With your elbow bent and resting on a table, move your fist side to side.
- Pronation/Supination: Using a light weight or hammer, rotate your forearm palm up and palm down.
- Towel Twists: Hold a loosely rolled towel and gently twist it in both directions
Additional Treatments
- Ice and compression to reduce inflammation
- Soft tissue mobilization techniques
- Shockwave therapy
- Bracing or compression for support
Progression
A physiotherapist will monitor your progress and adjust the exercises’ intensity, duration, and complexity as your condition improves.
It’s important to follow the prescribed program and not push through pain during exercises
Remember to consult with a physiotherapist before starting any exercise program for tennis elbow, as individual cases may require different approaches