Tennis Elbow Treatment in Wandsworth SW18

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated or overloaded.

This often happens due to repetitive gripping or lifting activities.

Common contributing factors include:

• Racquet sports

• Manual work

• Repetitive computer use

• Gym training

Common symptoms

Symptoms of tennis elbow may include:

• Pain on the outside of the elbow

• Pain when gripping objects

• Pain when lifting or twisting the forearm

• Reduced grip strength

Symptoms may gradually worsen if the arm continues to be overloaded.

How osteopathy can help

Osteopathic treatment focuses on reducing strain on the affected tendons and improving movement through the arm and shoulder.

Treatment may include:

• Soft tissue treatment for the forearm muscles

• Acupuncture

• Joint mobilisation of the elbow and wrist and shoulder

• Rehabilitation exercises

• Advice on activity modification

When to seek treatment

You may benefit from seeing an osteopath if:

• Elbow pain has lasted more than a few weeks

• Pain worsens with gripping or lifting

• Symptoms interfere with work or sport

When to seek medical advice

Medical advice should be sought if:

• Elbow pain follows significant trauma

• There is severe swelling or deformity

• Symptoms are accompanied by numbness or weakness

References

1. Coombes BK, Bisset L, Vicenzino B.
   Management of lateral elbow tendinopathy: one size does not fit all.
   Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2015;45(11):938–949.

2. Cullinane FL, Boocock MG, Trevelyan FC.
   Is eccentric exercise an effective treatment for lateral epicondylitis? A systematic review.
   Clinical Rehabilitation. 2014;28(1):3–19.

3. Bisset L, Paungmali A, Vicenzino B, Beller E.
   A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on physical interventions for lateral epicondylalgia.
   British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2005;39(7):411–422.

4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
   Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): conservative management and rehabilitation guidance.