Pain in the elbow often referred to as ‘tennis elbow’ or ‘elbow pain bench press’, is a common and often very uncomfortable condition. While some might experience pain in elbow joints due to arthritis, others might suffer from conditions like lateral epicondylitis. It’s essential to understand the symptoms and causes to ensure it doesn’t become a chronic issue. In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of tennis elbow and provide tips for treating this condition. From strengthening exercises to managing your activity, read on to find out how to effectively manage and treat your pain in the elbow joint.

What is tennis elbow?

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Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the outer part of the elbow. Contrary to its name, it’s not exclusive to tennis players. In fact, anyone who engages in repetitive wrist and forearm movements can develop this condition. At its core, tennis elbow is an inflammation of the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle, the bony bump on the elbow’s outside. This inflammation results from wear and tear, leading to pain, tenderness, and sometimes even weakness in the forearm.

The term “tennis elbow” originated because the condition can be a significant problem for some tennis players, especially those who employ an improper backhand technique. However, it’s also common among craftsmen, gardeners, and many other professionals who use their wrists and forearms repetitively.

Understanding tennis elbow is the first step in addressing and treating the pain. Recognizing the activities that exacerbate the condition can help in modifying them or adopting preventive measures to reduce the strain on the elbow.

Causes of Elbow Joint Pain

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Overuse of muscles

The muscles in our body are designed for movement and exertion. However, like any other part of our anatomy, they have their limits. Overuse of muscles, especially those around the elbow joint, can lead to a cascade of issues that culminate in pain and discomfort. Here’s a closer look at how overusing these muscles can impact the elbow:

Continuous Strain: The forearm contains a complex network of muscles responsible for various wrist, hand, and finger movements. When these muscles are used excessively without adequate rest, they can become fatigued and strained.

Tendon Stress: Muscles are anchored to bones through tendons. Overworking the forearm muscles places increased stress on these tendons, especially those attached to the elbow. Over time, this continuous tension can lead to microtears in the tendons, causing inflammation and pain.

Inflammation and Degeneration: Chronic overuse can lead to inflammation of the tendons, known as tendinitis. If this inflammation persists and the muscles continue to be overused, it can lead to degenerative changes in the tendons, making them more prone to injury.

Compensatory Mechanisms: When certain muscles are overused and fatigued, other muscles might compensate to maintain function. This can lead to imbalances, with some muscles becoming overly strained while others weaken, further stressing the elbow joint.

Connection to Repetitive Movements: Overuse often stems from repetitive motions. Whether it’s the consistent swing of a tennis racket, the repeated motion of hammering, or even regular typing, these actions can strain the forearm muscles over time, leading directly to elbow discomfort.

Chronic Conditions: If the overuse continues without intervention, it can lead to chronic conditions like tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow. These conditions are characterized by persistent pain, tenderness, and sometimes even a decrease in grip strength.

In essence, while our muscles are built for work, they also need rest and recovery. Overusing them, especially the muscles around the elbow, can lead to a range of issues that manifest as pain, stiffness, and reduced function. Recognizing the signs of overuse and taking preventive measures is crucial for maintaining elbow health.

Repetitive movements

Repetitive movements, especially those involving the forearm and wrist, play a significant role in the onset of elbow pain. While these actions might seem harmless or even mundane, their continuous repetition can have a profound impact on the elbow joint and surrounding structures. Here’s how:

Nature of Repetitive Strain: Engaging in the same motion over and over, such as typing, scrolling on a mouse, or swinging a racket, places a consistent strain on specific muscles and tendons. Over time, without adequate breaks or variation in movement, this can lead to wear and tear.

Tendon Overload: Continuous repetitive actions can overload the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow. This constant loading and unloading can lead to microtears, resulting in inflammation and pain, conditions often referred to as tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow.

Reduced Blood Flow: Repetitive movements, especially without breaks, can reduce blood flow to the affected tendons. Since tendons already have a limited blood supply compared to muscles, this can slow down the healing process, prolonging inflammation and pain.

Muscle Fatigue and Compensation: As certain muscles tire from repetitive use, other muscles might compensate to continue the action. This compensation can lead to muscle imbalances, placing even more strain on the already affected tendons and the elbow joint.

Connection to Overuse: Repetitive movements are a primary cause of muscle overuse. The continuous engagement of the same muscle groups without adequate rest periods exacerbates the strain on the tendons and the elbow joint.

Chronic Conditions from Repetition: If not addressed, the strain from repetitive movements can lead to chronic conditions. The tendons might thicken, scar tissue can form, and the joint may even show degenerative changes over time.

In summary, while repetitive movements are often a part of our daily routines or hobbies, it’s essential to recognize their potential impact on our elbow health. Implementing breaks, varying tasks, and ensuring proper ergonomics can go a long way in preventing the adverse effects of these repetitive actions on the elbow.

Poor form in exercises

Exercise is crucial for maintaining our physical health, but when done incorrectly, it can lead to injuries and pain also increasing the risk of tennis elbow. One of the common areas affected by poor exercise form is the elbow joint. Here’s how improper techniques during workouts can contribute to elbow pain:

Incorrect Load Distribution: Using improper form, especially during weightlifting, can place undue stress on the elbow joint. Instead of the load being evenly distributed across various muscle groups, it might concentrate on the tendons and ligaments of the elbow, leading to strain.

Hyperextension: Overextending the elbow during exercises, such as push-ups or bench presses, can stress the ligaments and tendons. Repeated hyperextension can lead to inflammation and pain.

Lack of Joint Stability: Poor form can result from or lead to weak stabilizing muscles around the elbow. Without proper stabilization, the joint becomes more susceptible to injuries during dynamic movements.

Compensatory Mechanisms: When an individual uses an incorrect form, other muscles might compensate for the lack of strength or stability. This compensation can lead to muscle imbalances, placing additional strain on the elbow joint.

Increased Risk with High-Intensity Workouts: High-intensity training, especially without proper form, can rapidly exacerbate elbow strain. The combination of heavy weights and incorrect techniques is a recipe for injuries.

Connection to Repetitive Movements: Just as repetitive movements can lead to overuse injuries, continuously repeating an exercise with poor form magnifies the risk of injury. It’s not just the incorrect movement but its repetition that can be detrimental.

Importance of Guidance: Especially for beginners or those trying out new exercises, guidance from a trained professional can be invaluable. They can correct form, suggest modifications, and ensure that exercises are done safely to prevent elbow and other joint injuries.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

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Pain and tenderness

Pain is often the first and most noticeable symptom of tennis elbow. This discomfort typically originates from the outside of the elbow, specifically at the lateral epicondyle. The pain can range from a mild, dull ache to a sharp, intense sensation, especially when the affected area is touched or pressure is applied. Activities that involve gripping or lifting can intensify this pain. Over time, if the condition progresses, even light activities or passive movements might trigger discomfort. The tenderness at the lateral epicondyle serves as a clear indicator of inflammation and strain on the tendons attached to this bony prominence.

Stiffness in the elbow

The stiffness associated with tennis elbow can be particularly bothersome, especially after periods of inactivity like waking up in the morning mostly felt in the forearm muscle which in turn could cause persistent elbow pain. This rigidity can limit the range of motion, making it challenging to straighten the arm fully or perform daily tasks. The stiffness often arises from inflammation in the tendons and surrounding tissues, leading to a sensation of tightness. In some cases, individuals might also experience a “locking” or “catching” feeling in the elbow joint, further hindering smooth movement.

Weakness in the wrist

The tendons affected by tennis elbow are intricately linked to the muscles controlling wrist movements. As these tendons become inflamed and damaged, their ability to transmit force effectively diminishes. This results in a noticeable weakness in the wrist, particularly when trying to grip objects or perform actions that require wrist flexion or extension. Simple tasks, such as pouring a drink, turning a key, or even holding a book, can become challenging. This weakness isn’t just a result of the pain but indicates the strain and potential damage to the tendons and muscles involved.

How to Treat Tennis Elbow Pain

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Elbow joint pain, particularly from conditions like tennis elbow, requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. Addressing the pain, inflammation, and underlying causes can lead to a more comprehensive recovery. Here’s a deeper look into some effective treatment strategies:

Resting the elbow

One of the primary treatments for tennis elbow or any muscle or tendon-related injury is rest. Allowing the affected tendons and muscles time to heal is crucial. This means taking a break from activities that exacerbate the pain, such as lifting, gripping, or any repetitive wrist and forearm movements. Using a brace or splint can also help immobilize the joint, providing the necessary support and promoting healing.

Massage

Therapeutic massage can be beneficial in alleviating pain and promoting healing. By targeting the inflamed tendons and surrounding muscles, massage can improve blood flow to the area, reduce muscle tightness, and aid in the removal of inflammatory by-products. It’s essential to seek a trained professional familiar with tennis elbow to ensure the massage is both effective and safe.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. These medications provide temporary relief and can be especially beneficial in the acute stages of the condition. However, it’s essential to use them as directed and consult with a healthcare professional about any potential side effects or interactions.

Osteopathy with Back In Health Osteopathy:

Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions, including tennis elbow. At Back In Health Osteopathy, trained osteopaths use manual techniques to improve your elbow joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall function. Their hands-on approach not only addresses the symptoms but also the root causes of elbow pain. By understanding the body’s interconnectedness, they can provide tailored treatments that promote overall well-being. If you’re struggling with elbow joint pain, booking an appointment with Back In Health Osteopathy can be a pivotal step in your recovery journey. Their expertise can help alleviate pain, restore function, and provide strategies to prevent future issues.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in treating elbow joint pain. A trained therapist can guide patients through exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance joint function. They can also provide modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy not only addresses the immediate symptoms but also equips individuals with strategies to prevent future injuries.

Wrist extension and flexion exercises

Strengthening the forearm muscles can provide better support to the elbow joint and reduce strain on the tendons. Simple exercises, such as wrist extensions and flexions, can be done with light weights or resistance bands. For example:

Wrist Extension: With a lightweight in hand and the forearm resting on a table (palm facing down), slowly lift the weight by extending the wrist and then lowering it.

Wrist Flexion: The setup is similar, but with the palm facing up. Lift the weight by flexing the wrist and then lower it.

These exercises can help build strength and endurance in the forearm muscles, reducing the risk of re-injury.

Isometric exercises

Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without any visible movement, providing strength without straining the tendons. For tennis elbow:

Place your affected hand palm-down on a table.

Use your other hand to press down on the back of the affected hand.

Resist the force with the affected hand, creating a static contraction.

Hold for a few seconds, then relax.

This exercise can help in the early stages of recovery, providing strength without further irritating the tendons.

Adjusting the form for the Bench Press

For those who experience elbow pain during or after bench pressing, adjusting the form can make a significant difference:

Grip Width: A too-wide or too-narrow grip can place additional strain on the elbow. Find a grip width that feels natural and reduces elbow discomfort.

Elbow Position: Keep the elbows closer to the body rather than flaring them out. This position reduces the strain on the tendons and ligaments of the elbow.

Wrist Position: Ensure the wrists are in a neutral position and not excessively bent backward. This alignment ensures the force is evenly distributed.

How to Prevent Elbow Joint Pain

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Prevention is always better than cure. While treating tennis elbow and other forms of elbow joint pain is essential, taking steps to prevent its onset or recurrence is equally crucial. Here are some strategies to keep elbow joint pain at bay:

Warming up properly

Before engaging in any physical activity, especially those that involve the arms, it’s vital to warm up. A proper warm-up increases blood flow to the muscles and tendons, making them more flexible and less prone to injury. Simple arm circles, gentle wrist flexions and extensions, and light stretching can prepare the elbow for more intense activities.

Selecting appropriate exercises

Choose exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles without placing undue stress on the elbow joint. Incorporate a mix of strength training, flexibility exercises, and endurance activities. If you’re new to a particular exercise or sport, consider getting guidance from a trained professional to ensure you’re using the correct technique.

Paying attention to form

Whether it’s lifting weights, playing a sport, or even performing daily tasks, maintaining proper form is crucial. Incorrect techniques can place additional strain on the elbow, leading to injuries. For instance:

In racket sports, ensure you’re using the correct grip size and technique.

When lifting weights, avoid locking out the elbow completely or using excessive weight that compromises form.

In daily tasks, use ergonomically designed tools and take regular breaks to prevent overuse.

Equipment Check:

Using the right equipment can make a significant difference:

Ensure that sports rackets or equipment are of the correct size and weight for your physique.

In jobs that require repetitive hand or wrist movements, use tools that reduce strain on the forearm and elbow.

Regular Rest and Recovery:

Just as important as activity is rest. Muscles and tendons need time to recover after exertion. Ensure you’re not overworking your forearm muscles and give them adequate time to heal after intense activities.

Stay Hydrated and Maintain Nutrition:

Proper hydration and nutrition can aid muscle function and recovery. Ensure you’re drinking enough water and consuming a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.

By adopting these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing elbow joint pain or experiencing a recurrence. It’s all about a balanced approach – combining activity with rest, and vigilance with enjoyment.

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Conclusion

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Your elbow joint pain, particularly tennis elbow, is a condition that can significantly impact daily life. However, with the right knowledge, treatment, and preventive measures, it’s entirely manageable and can get your elbow back in shape. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or someone who enjoys daily activities, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for your elbow pain can ensure you continue to enjoy what you love without discomfort. Remember, it’s not just about treating the pain but also about adopting a holistic approach to health and well-being your elbow is one of the most important bones in your body taking care of it is crucial to live a happy pain-free life.

Still haven’t been able to tackle your elbow joint pain? Book in with one of our experienced Osteopaths at Back In Health Osteopathy and experience relief from your pain today!

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Brief Summary of points discussed throughout the blog:
pain in elbow joint
lateral epicondylitis
tennis elbow symptoms
arthritis
pain of tennis elbow
upper arm
signs of tennis elbow
elbow muscles
quick fixes
steroid injections