Tennis Elbow
(lateral epicondylitis)
Osteopath for tennis elbow in Chelmsford
Understanding Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons that attach to the elbow become irritated or overloaded, often due to repetitive movements of the wrist and arm.
Despite the name, tennis elbow affects not only athletes but also people with repetitive daily activities such as typing, lifting, or manual work.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Common symptoms include:
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is usually caused by overuse or repetitive strain of the forearm muscles. Common triggers include:
How Osteopathy Can Help Tennis Elbow
Osteopathy focuses on reducing strain on the affected tendons while improving movement and function.
Treatment may include:
Benefits of osteopathic treatment:
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your osteopath will:
How Long Does Tennis Elbow Last?
Tennis elbow can last from a few weeks to several months depending on severity. With appropriate treatment and activity modification, recovery is usually faster and more effective.
Can Massage Help Tennis Elbow?
Massage can be helpful for tennis elbow, especially when used alongside rest and proper rehab. Here’s how it works and what to expect:
Reduces muscle tension
Tennis elbow isn’t just about the tendon, it often involves tight forearm muscles. Massage relaxes these muscles, reducing strain on the irritated tendon.
Improves blood flow
Better circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissue, which can support healing.
Breaks down adhesions
Overuse can cause small scar tissue adhesions. Techniques like deep tissue massage or cross-friction massage may help loosen these, improving flexibility.
Decreases pain signals
Massage can stimulate the nervous system in a way that reduces how strongly you feel pain.
Types of massage that help
Book your assessment
If you're experiencing elbow pain or reduced function, osteopathy and massage can help relieve symptoms and support recovery. Contact us today to book your tennis elbow assessment.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons that attach to the elbow become irritated or overloaded, often due to repetitive movements of the wrist and arm.
Despite the name, tennis elbow affects not only athletes but also people with repetitive daily activities such as typing, lifting, or manual work.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting (e.g. opening jars)
- Weak grip strength
- Discomfort or tingling that may spread down the forearm
- Pain that worsens with activity
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is usually caused by overuse or repetitive strain of the forearm muscles. Common triggers include:
- Racquet sports (especially tennis)
- Repetitive manual work (e.g. tools, lifting)
- Office work (typing and mouse use)
- Weightlifting
- Poor technique or posture
- Sudden increase in activity levels
How Osteopathy Can Help Tennis Elbow
Osteopathy focuses on reducing strain on the affected tendons while improving movement and function.
Treatment may include:
- Soft tissue massage to reduce muscle tension
- Joint mobilisation of the elbow, wrist, shoulder and neck
- Stretching techniques for the forearm muscles
- Advice on activity modification and ergonomics
- Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and prevent recurrence
Benefits of osteopathic treatment:
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Improves grip strength and function
- Addresses the root cause of the problem
- Personalised treatment approach
- Helps prevent recurrence
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your osteopath will:
- Take a detailed history of your symptoms
- Assess your elbow, wrist, and shoulder movement
- Identify contributing factors
- Provide hands-on treatment
- Give tailored exercises and practical advice
How Long Does Tennis Elbow Last?
Tennis elbow can last from a few weeks to several months depending on severity. With appropriate treatment and activity modification, recovery is usually faster and more effective.
Can Massage Help Tennis Elbow?
Massage can be helpful for tennis elbow, especially when used alongside rest and proper rehab. Here’s how it works and what to expect:
Reduces muscle tension
Tennis elbow isn’t just about the tendon, it often involves tight forearm muscles. Massage relaxes these muscles, reducing strain on the irritated tendon.
Improves blood flow
Better circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissue, which can support healing.
Breaks down adhesions
Overuse can cause small scar tissue adhesions. Techniques like deep tissue massage or cross-friction massage may help loosen these, improving flexibility.
Decreases pain signals
Massage can stimulate the nervous system in a way that reduces how strongly you feel pain.
Types of massage that help
- Deep tissue massage – targets tight forearm muscles
- Cross-friction massage – applied directly to the tendon area
- Myofascial release – helps with overall arm tension
Book your assessment
If you're experiencing elbow pain or reduced function, osteopathy and massage can help relieve symptoms and support recovery. Contact us today to book your tennis elbow assessment.
