Elbow Pain
Tennis elbow is the common
name given to pain originating on the outside or lateral side of
the elbow. This condition arises from an irritation or
inflammation of the tendons of one or several forearm muscles at
their attachment to the bony protuberance close to the elbow
joint, known as the lateral epicondyle. Therefore the
medical term for this condition is lateral epicondylitis,
meaning an inflammation of the epicondyle. If the condition is
located on the inside or medial side of the elbow it is often
referred as Golfer's Elbow or medial epicondylitis. This,
however, is not as prevalent as lateral epicondylitis.
There are many causes for
Epicondylitis - not just tennis & golf - as any activity that
involves repetitive gripping of objects can result in this
affliction. Some individuals develop tennis or golfer's
elbow from
prolonged carrying of heavy bags, knitting, chopping food,
and/or computer work using improper wrist and arm posture.
With sports, the problem arises when we are new to the game, use
an improper technique, try out new racquets or clubs, or
increase the intensity or duration of exercise without the
proper preparation. Sometimes the condition can be so severe
that it is difficult to even grip and lift one's coffee cup!
Some cases involving
epicondylitis can be attributed to problems further up the arm
or even in the neck. If someone has a disc condition or spinal
subluxation, the nerves that control the forearm muscles may
become irritated causing the muscles to tense and put marked
strain on the tendon attachment(s). In these circumstances, this
predisposes an individual to elbow pain from any of the above
mentioned causes. If left untreated it is possible that the
joints of the elbow can become subluxated further complicating
the condition.
Epicondylitis is a condition
that rarely resolves of its own accord and so requires proper
medical management. A qualified medical professional such
as a chiropractor can determine the exact cause of the problem
and initiate the proper care and treatment. This might include
modalities such as ultrasound, electrotherapy, massage, hot and
cold treatments, bracing and home stretching and exercises.
Chiropractic adjustments have proven extremely effective in the
overall management of this problem.
|
|
