Elbow pain treatment for people in Kensal Green, Kensal Rise, Willesden, Queens Park and Harlesden
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
The most common elbow presentation is tennis elbow, where the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated due to overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden increases in activity.
Despite its name, tennis elbow can affect anyone who performs repetitive or forceful movements of the forearm and wrist.
Assessment focuses not only on the elbow but also on the shoulder and upper back, as reduced strength or mobility in these areas can increase load through the elbow.
Treatment typically includes hands-on osteopathic techniques, specific strengthening exercises, and rehabilitation of both local and contributing areas. Advice may also include activity modification, ergonomic changes, and the use of support such as bracing or taping where appropriate.
How can osteopathy help?
In most cases, targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the elbow are an important part of treatment. However, it is also useful to look beyond the elbow itself. Osteopathic assessment considers whether stiffness, weakness or reduced movement elsewhere in the body may be contributing to the problem or placing additional strain on the elbow.
For example, reduced movement in the shoulder or upper back can increase the forces passing through the elbow during activities such as a tennis stroke or golf swing. You don’t have to play sport to develop tennis elbow, though. Everyday activities can place similar stresses on the elbow if the body is not moving and working efficiently as a whole.
Treatment may include hands-on techniques to improve muscle tone, reduce irritation and restore joint mobility, both at the elbow and in other areas that may be contributing to increased stress. Exercises are usually prescribed to improve strength, flexibility and control, and are practised during the session to ensure they are appropriate and comfortable to perform. Video demonstrations are also available for reference at home.
Read more about pain associated with specific areas of the body in the “Treatments for” section.
You can book an appointment here or if you have any questions you’d like to run by me:
