As it turns out, the elbow is a pretty complex joint…even if we don’t think about it that way.

The powerful tendons that move the forearm, wrist, and fingers all meet at the elbow. If that wasn’t enough, the large muscles of the upper arm, the triceps and biceps, cross the joint from above.

This means a lot is going on in there!

The muscles of the upper arm usually don’t cause many problems, but the complex movements required of the wrist and fingers make this attachment point more of an issue.

Even though the joint is somewhat complex, it is usually not prone to injury. The elbow is pretty darn stable.

However, repeated incorrect movements of the arm can be the culprit. When repeated often enough, these movements can lead to “microtears” in the tendons.  For example, this can happen when striking the ball with a racket improperly.

This results in irritation and inflammation which equals pain.

Tennis is not the only cause of injury, however.

Any injury or overuse of the powerful extensor muscles on the top of your forearm can lead to tennis elbow.

Here are some typical examples:

• Using a knife to cut through food or something similar
• Using scissors
• Any high-volume throwing activity
• Swimming
• Any job or task that requires repetitive grabbing, flexing, extending, or turning of the wrist;  examples include gardening, typing, or even prolonged wrist flexion while grabbing the handlebars of a bike.

Most people immediately take over-the-counter pain relievers when a tennis elbow strikes. This makes sense. However, relying on these pain relievers for the long-term can be a health concern.

Pain-relieving drugs, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can cause a breakdown of the stomach lining (ulcers), or even damage to the liver or kidney when used for long periods or in too high a dosage.

Therefore, if you take pain relievers and they don’t put an end to your pain, you should give us a call.

If the pain in your elbow lasts longer than 14 days, it’s time to take action and set up an appointment with us.

Also, if you can’t bend your elbow or if your elbow is inflamed or looks very swollen, it is recommended you give us a call.

Now that we know the causes and symptoms of tennis elbow, what can you do about it?

We’ve already talked about rest. If you don’t mind putting the clubs away for a while, that could help, but if you’re eager to get back out there, here’s are just some of the pieces of the plan we’ll put together for you.

– Specialized flexibility work

– Specialized strength work

– Proper recovery planning

– Ultrasound

– Laser therapy

– Massage therapy

– Dry Needling

– Active Release Technique

All of these tools, used as part of a complete treatment plan, will dramatically accelerate your recovery…getting you pain-free and back on the course ASAP!

As we know, every person is unique. As a result, your recovery planning has to be built around you, your lifestyle, your strengths, and your limitations…everything.

If you need tennis elbow treatment in Fort Myer’s, FL area we need to talk.

We understand golf and the tennis mindset.

We want to get you back out there as quickly and safely as possible.

We invite you to call us right away to set up a free consultation or to make an appointment.

Our expert staff will work with you to design the right plan for you!

You can reach us at 239-610-4945

Don’t spend another round in pain or being left behind at the clubhouse.

Call today: 239-610-4945

Come to our Fort Myers or Cape Coral office locations so you know you’ll receive the very best treatment.