Two common Elbow Problem

Jenefer Davys, osteopath at SOC, describes how to recognise two common elbow problems and offers some advice on pain management.

1. “Tennis Elbow” – this is felt on the outside of the elbow and sometimes the lower arm or back of the hand. It indicates inflammation of the tendons of the muscles that extend the wrist and the fingers. As well as tennis, other repeated actions may cause it, eg using a screwdriver, trying to open tight jars, typing or using a computer mouse.

2. “Golfer’s Elbow” – this is felt on the inside of the elbow and indicates inflammation of the tendons of muscles that flex the wrist and fingers (bend them towards your palm). Apart from golf, other strenuous or repetitive actions may cause it, eg carrying heavy shopping bags, rock climbing, playing the piano.

The medical terms are lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) because the inflamed tendons attach to one of the epicondyles, two bony protrusions on the lower end of the upper arm bone (humerus).

Simple things that can make a big difference include:

• Resting the arm and avoiding activities that aggravate the pain.

· Cold pack on the area of discomfort may help reduce inflammation (alternating cold and hot compresses may help when pain is chronic or long-term)

• Adjusting your workstation or equipment, if at all possible (eg use a wrist rest with keyboard; try an ergonomic mouse; try an electric screwdriver…)

• Wearing an elbow support/strap with an integral pressure pad; place it about 5cm below the elbow around the forearm, with the pad on the outside for tennis elbow and the inside for golfer’s.

These can be purchased from many chemists.

Manual therapy such as osteopathy Is often beneficial along with exercises to help prevent recurrence. Whether you develop tennis or golfer’s elbow can depend on your posture and how you use your body as a whole. It’s important if you have any pain in the elbow and/or into the fingers, that you check with a medical professional that there are no problems with your neck, spine or anything else that could be the root cause.

For treatment and advice with our caring team of osteopaths, book an appointment at Shoreham Osteopathy Centre on 01273 567654 or info@shorehamosteo.co.uk.