Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis Elbow is a condition that affects the elbow of athletes. Commonly known as tennis elbow, it is a repetitive stress injury that’s a result of repetitive overuse. Tennis players commonly experience this condition, which is why it is known as tennis elbow. However, it doesn’t only affect tennis players and can affect any individual who repetitively overuses their elbow joint.
Several different factors, including poor mechanics, inadequate warm-up, and inappropriate racket type, can contribute to Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis Elbow. Since it is a common condition, fortunately, there are ways to prevent it. Let's look at someways to prevent Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis Elbow and what to do if you develop the condition.
How to Prevent Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis Elbow
Get Coaching
Since the condition is quite common among tennis and squash players, using improper techniques is one of the leading causes. Hence, the best way to prevent it is to get coaching. Make sure you learn the proper technique, particularly for backhand strokes, as it is one of the best ways to avoid injuring the tendons. Moreover, getting the right coaching advice will improve your technique, reducing the risk of repetitive stress injury.
Warm-up Properly
Before starting any game, it is critical to warm up your body as it plays an integral role in avoiding repetitive stress injury. Make sure you warm up your body gently and adequately stretch your arm muscles before playing any sport that involves repetitive movement of the arm.
Use the Right Tools
If you are an athlete and want to prevent tennis elbow, don't forget to use the suitable sizes and weight of rackets. You can find several types of rackets in the market but make sure you seek the help of a professional to determine the best combination for racket size and weight based on your skill level.
Increase Your Forearm Muscles Strength
Increasing the strength of your forearm muscles is another way of preventing tennis elbow that applies to all individuals, whether they are athletes or not. You can try out several exercises to increase the strength of your forearm muscles but make sure you seek the advice of a physiotherapist who can suggest the best exercises to strengthen your forearm muscles.
What to Do in Case You Develop Tennis Elbow
As you try out the techniques mentioned above to prevent tennis elbow, in case you still develop it, here are some of the measures you should take.
- Stop the activity that is causing pain in your elbow or surrounding area,
- Avoid using your elbow and wrist more than the rest of your arm,
- Wear a tennis elbow splint while using your arm,
- Avoid putting a strain on your forearm muscles as it can worsen the condition,
- Get in touch with a healthcare practitioner.
Sports & Family Chiro Chiropractic is one of the leading Chiropractors in Melbourne, offering management and prevention of a wide range of shoulder and other upper body chiropractic conditions. To learn more about our assessment, diagnostic, and treatment services, get in touch today