Tennis Elbow and Chiropractic Care: A Natural Approach to Relief by Dr. Dana Harvey, Milton Chiropractic and Massage

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons near the elbow joint.  In simple terms your forearm “gripping” muscles are overused and extremely tight!

Surprisingly, it is not just limited to tennis players—any repetitive motion involving the wrist and arm, such as typing, painting, or using tools, can contribute to the condition.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain or burning sensation on the outer part of the elbow

• Weak forearm extension and increased tension on the flexor tendons (grippers)

• Increased pain when lifting objects, shaking hands, or twisting the wrist

• Stiffness or soreness in the elbow, especially in the morning

How Can Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractic treatment offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach to managing and relieving tennis elbow pain. Chiropractors focus on restoring proper joint function, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing through a variety of techniques, including:

1. Chiropractic Adjustments

Misalignments in the spine or elbow joint can contribute to muscle strain and improper biomechanics. Chiropractic adjustments help restore the proper movement pattern and function to the affected area, reducing stress on the elbow.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

The techniques we use in the clinic include myofascial release, active release technique (ART), Graston (scraping) and massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension, break up scar tissue, and improve circulation to the injured tendons.

3. Therapeutic Exercises

Chiropractors often prescribe specific stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the forearm muscles, reducing strain on the tendons and preventing future injuries.  Most patients we see are doing something during regular daily activities that continue to aggravate the elbow that they are unaware of.

4. Cold and Heat Therapy

Applying ice to reduce inflammation and heat to improve blood flow can help speed up recovery. Chiropractors may use both methods strategically to enhance healing.

5. Kinesiology Taping

Supportive taping techniques can help stabilize the muscles and tendons, reducing strain and promoting proper movement patterns during daily activities.  Kinesiology tape is very effective for bracing without the patient compromising a full range of motion of the elbow.

Chiropractic care offers a holistic and effective approach to treating tennis elbow by addressing the root cause of the condition rather than just masking symptoms. By improving joint function, reducing inflammation, and promoting proper movement, chiropractic treatment can help individuals recover faster and prevent re-injury. If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain, consulting a chiropractor may be a beneficial step toward long-term relief.

Please reach out to us if you are suffering at 770-761-9224…. and you can find us on the web at www.MyMiltonChiro.com.

Learn more: www.MyMiltonChiro.com