Golfers & Tennis Elbow

 

Golfer’s Elbow/Tennis Elbow are conditions characterized by tendonitis of the flexors or extensors of the forearm due to repetitive use. There will be localized tenderness at either the medial or lateral epicondyle of the elbow with pain radiating down through the forearm. 

Medial and Lateral Epicondylitis are very common with the aging athlete.  The pain is caused from repetitive use, and impact from a golf swing and backhanding in tennis.  They can also be caused from lifting weights like a heavy bench press, or preacher curls.  

 

Elbow pain can also be a result from shoulder injuries and instability.  The fascial planes that stem from the shoulder go to the fingers, and cross over the elbows hinge joint, and become inflamed.  

 

Whatever the pathomechanism may be, acupuncture is great for relieving pain in the region.  The acupuncture will relax the muscles that cross over the joint and disable the tension pulling on it.  It will also help increase blood flow, and relieve inflammation.

 

Studies have shown that electric stimulation of the acupuncture needles in the elbow will help relieve pain and inflammation in these two conditions, and is also very effective in elbow tendinosus which is a degradation of the elbow tendons.  This is a much more serious condition, and can lead to surgery down the road.

 

Studies have also shown that commonly used NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can cause secretion of mucus in the tendons during the healing phase, so acupuncture is a greater alternative for relief.