Understanding and Treating Golfers and Tennis Elbows
Feeling pain on the outside (tennis elbow) or inside (golfer’s elbow) of your elbow? If so, you’re not alone. These common overuse injuries can significantly impact your daily activities. Fortunately, our MTI Physical Therapy experts understand what’s happening to your tendons and the steps that need to be done to help you find relief.
Moving Beyond Inflammation: The New Science of Tendon Changes
For many years, tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow were thought to be caused by inflammation of the tendons. However, recent studies suggest a different culprit: tendinosis. Tendinosis signifies a degeneration of the collagen fibers within the tendon itself, rather than inflammation. This degeneration disrupts the tendon’s structure and weakens its ability to handle stress.
What’s Happening to Your Tendons?
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes observed in golfer’s and tennis elbow:
Microtears and Disorganization
Repetitive strain leads to the formation of tiny tears within the tendon structure. These micro-tears don’t necessarily cause inflammation, but they contribute to the disorganization of the collagen fibers, weakening the tendon.
Reduced Blood Flow
Studies suggest impaired blood flow to the affected tendons might play a role. This decreased blood flow can affect healing and contribute to degenerative changes.
the Different Stages of Tendonosis
Research suggests that golfer’s and tennis elbow progress through stages:
Early Stage
Initial micro-tears and degeneration begin, but the tendon maintains its overall structure. Pain might be present, but imaging may not show significant abnormalities.
Chronic Stage
The microtears become more pronounced, and the collagen fibers lose organization. Pain intensifies, and imaging may reveal thickening or degeneration within the tendon.
Effective Treatment with Physical Therapy
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a speedy recovery from golfers and tennis elbow. Physical therapy at MTI Physical Therapy offers a non-surgical approach to address the underlying issues in your tendons and promote healing. Here’s what you can expect:
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your therapist will assess your pain, activity limitations, and movement patterns to pinpoint the problem.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the evaluation, your therapist will create a plan to address your specific needs. This might involve:
- Manual Therapy: Techniques to improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote blood flow to the affected area.
- Strengthening Exercises: Building strength in your forearm and other supportive muscles for better tendon support.
- Stretching Exercises: Improve flexibility in the forearm muscles to prevent further strain.
Education on Proper Technique
Learn how to perform activities without putting undue stress on your elbows.
Preventing Future Issues
Your therapist will teach you strategies to avoid re-injury.
Looking to Recover from Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow?
Call MTI Physical Therapy Today!
Partnering with one of our qualified physical therapists in Bellevue, Edmonds, Fremont, First Hill, Magnolia or Issaquah to help manage your pain, improve your mobility, and get you back to the activities you enjoy. Don’t let elbow pain hold you back — schedule your appointment today and take control of your recovery!
