Physiotherapy for Elbow Injuries: Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow, and Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
Introduction
Elbow injuries are common in both athletes and individuals performing repetitive tasks. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), and post-surgical rehabilitation are frequent conditions requiring physiotherapy. These injuries often result in pain, reduced grip strength, and limited range of motion, affecting daily activities and sports performance.
Physiotherapy is essential for pain relief, strengthening, restoring mobility, and preventing recurrence, helping patients regain full function.
Understanding Elbow Injuries
1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
• Definition: Inflammation of the tendons on the outer elbow due to repetitive wrist and arm movements.
• Causes: Tennis, racquet sports, typing, or lifting activities.
• Symptoms: Pain on the outer elbow, weak grip, difficulty lifting objects.
2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
• Definition: Inflammation of tendons on the inner elbow.
• Causes: Golf, throwing sports, repetitive lifting or wrist flexion.
• Symptoms: Pain on the inner elbow, weak grip, stiffness, tenderness.
3. Post-Surgical Elbow Rehabilitation
• Surgery may involve tendon repair, ligament reconstruction, or fracture fixation.
• Physiotherapy ensures restoration of range of motion, strength, and function.
Goals of Physiotherapy for Elbow Injuries
1. Pain Reduction: Alleviate discomfort using modalities and exercises.
2. Restore Range of Motion (ROM): Prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.
3. Strengthening Muscles and Tendons: Improve grip strength and support the joint.
4. Functional Recovery: Return to daily activities, work, or sports.
5. Prevent Recurrence: Reduce risk of re-injury with proper technique and exercise.
Physiotherapy Techniques for Elbow Injuries
1. Pain Management
• Ice packs for acute inflammation
• Heat therapy for chronic stiffness
• TENS for pain relief
• Soft tissue massage to reduce tension in forearm muscles
2. Range of Motion Exercises
• Gentle elbow flexion and extension: Move the elbow within a pain-free range
• Forearm pronation and supination: Rotate the forearm to improve mobility
• Wrist stretches: Reduce tension on elbow tendons
3. Strengthening Exercises
• Isometric exercises: Gentle contractions without movement in early stages
• TheraBand or resistance exercises: Wrist curls, extensions, and forearm rotations
• Grip strengthening: Using soft balls, putty, or hand exercisers
4. Eccentric Exercises
• Controlled lengthening of forearm muscles helps tendon healing
• Particularly effective for tennis and golfer’s elbow
5. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
• Early passive and assisted ROM exercises
• Gradual strengthening of forearm and grip muscles
• Functional exercises to restore daily activities and sports performance
6. Ergonomic and Activity Modification
• Adjust workstations or sports techniques to reduce strain
• Use proper equipment (e.g., ergonomic keyboard, sports racquet)
• Avoid repetitive motions during early recovery
Practical Tips for Patients
• Consistency: Daily exercises and stretches ensure optimal recovery.
• Avoid aggravating activities: Reduce repetitive lifting or wrist movements during acute phase.
• Gradual progression: Increase resistance and intensity slowly.
• Use supports or braces: Elbow straps may help reduce tendon strain.
• Monitor symptoms: Report unusual swelling, sharp pain, or numbness promptly.
Case Example (Illustrative)
A 35-year-old recreational tennis player developed lateral epicondylitis. Physiotherapy included:
• Ice and TENS therapy for pain relief
• Stretching and ROM exercises for the forearm and wrist
• Eccentric wrist extension and grip-strengthening exercises
• Activity modification and ergonomic advice
After 6 weeks, he regained pain-free elbow movement, improved grip strength, and returned to playing tennis safely.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Elbow Injuries
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Restores range of motion and flexibility
• Strengthens forearm, wrist, and grip muscles
• Enhances functional ability for daily and sports activities
• Prevents re-injury through proper technique and strengthening
• Promotes faster recovery and return to normal life
Conclusion
Physiotherapy is a key component in managing elbow injuries such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Through pain management, stretching, strengthening, eccentric exercises, and activity modification, patients can achieve optimal recovery, regain full function, and prevent recurrence. Early intervention and consistent rehabilitation are essential for long-term elbow health and performance.
0 Comments