Risk Factors for Tennis Elbow: Age, Other Arm Injuries, and Lifestyle Factors

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury that affects the elbow and causes pain and discomfort in the outer part of the arm. While it is often associated with playing tennis, it can also be caused by a variety of other activities and occupations that involve repetitive motion of the wrist and arm. In this blog, we will discuss the risk factors for tennis elbow, including age, other arm injuries, and lifestyle factors.

Age is a risk factor for tennis elbow, with the condition being more common in individuals over the age of 40. As we age, the tendons in our body become less elastic and more susceptible to injury. In addition, the degenerative changes in the muscles and bones that occur with age can weaken the elbow and increase the risk of injury. This is particularly true for individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as playing tennis, golf, or baseball.

Other arm injuries such as rotator cuff injuries, De Quervain’s disease, carpal tunnel syndrome are risk factors for tennis elbow. These are other injuries commonly associated with repetitive activities of the hand and arm.

Lifestyle factors can also contribute to the development of tennis elbow. People who work in jobs that require repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as carpentry, plumbing, or painting, are at an increased risk of developing tennis elbow. Additionally, individuals who participate in sports that require repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as tennis, golf, or baseball, are also at an increased risk.

Other lifestyle factors that can contribute to the development of tennis elbow include smoking and poor posture. Smoking can impair circulation and reduce the body’s ability to heal itself. Poor posture, such as slouching or hunching over a computer, can also put extra strain on the muscles and tendons of the arm and wrist.

While age, other arm injuries, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to the development of tennis elbow, there are also other factors that can increase the risk of injury. These include improper technique or equipment use during sports or other activities, a history of previous injuries to the elbow or arm, and certain medical conditions that weaken the tendons and muscles of the body.

To reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow, it is important to take steps to protect the muscles and tendons of the arm and wrist. This can include maintaining good posture, taking frequent breaks during activities that require repetitive arm and wrist movements, using proper technique and equipment during sports or other activities, and engaging in stretching and exercises that strengthen the muscles and tendons of the arm and wrist.

If you do develop tennis elbow, there are a variety of treatment options available. These can include rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and tendons of the arm and wrist. In rare severe cases, surgery may be required to repair damaged tendons or other structures in the elbow.

Prevent tennis elbow injuries with physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a crucial part of the treatment plan for tennis elbow, as it can help alleviate pain, promote healing, and prevent future injuries. Tennis elbow is a condition that affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow, and it is caused by repetitive use of the wrist and forearm muscles. Physiotherapy can help manage the symptoms of tennis elbow and address the underlying causes of the condition.

One of the primary goals of physiotherapy for tennis elbow is to reduce pain and inflammation. Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques to achieve this goal including manual therapy, dry needling, ice, and electrotherapy. Manual therapy involves using hands-on techniques to mobilize the muscles and joints of the affected area and improve circulation. Dry needling can stimulate the nervous system related to the area and help decrease persistent tightness of the muscles, while ice can help reduce swelling.. Electrotherapy, such as ultrasound or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), can also be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

In addition to pain management, physiotherapy can also help improve the range of motion and flexibility of the elbow joint. This can be achieved through exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons of the forearm and wrist. A physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an individualized exercise program that is tailored to their specific needs and abilities. The program may include exercises that focus on wrist extension and flexion, forearm pronation and supination, and grip strength.

Another important aspect of physiotherapy for tennis elbow is correcting any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to the condition. This can include addressing issues with posture, alignment, and muscle imbalances. A physiotherapist will assess the patient’s movements and identify any areas of weakness or dysfunction that may be contributing to the development of tennis elbow. They will then develop a treatment plan that targets these areas, with the goal of improving overall function and reducing the risk of future injury.

One of the most effective physiotherapy techniques for tennis elbow is eccentric exercise. Eccentric exercise involves slowly lowering a weight while the muscle is lengthening, which can help build strength and promote healing in the tendons. Studies have shown that eccentric exercise is highly effective in treating tennis elbow, and it can be done with weights or resistance bands. A physiotherapist can teach patients how to perform these exercises safely and effectively.

In some cases, a physiotherapist may also use taping or bracing to support the elbow joint and reduce strain on the affected tendons. Taping can help support the muscles and tendons, while bracing can help unload the joint and prevent further aggravation of symptoms. These techniques are often used in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatments, such as exercises and manual therapy.

Overall, physiotherapy is an essential part of the treatment plan for tennis elbow. By reducing pain and inflammation, improving range of motion and flexibility, addressing biomechanical issues, and promoting healing, physiotherapy can help patients manage the symptoms of tennis elbow and prevent future injuries. If you are experiencing symptoms of tennis elbow, it is important to seek prompt treatment from a physiotherapist who can develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your needs. With the right treatment and care, most patients with tennis elbow are able to fully recover and return to their normal activities.

Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exercises should I avoid with tennis elbow?

Exercises to avoid with tennis elbow include repetitive and heavy bending and straightening of the elbow, as well as gripping and gripping-related activities. Examples include activities like tennis, golf, weightlifting, and using a screwdriver. While attending physiotherapy, these activities would be reintroduced once symptoms are under control.

Should you put hot or cold on tennis elbow?

For pain relief, both hot and cold therapy can be used for tennis elbow. Ice packs should be applied for 10-15 minutes at a time, up to three times a day to reduce inflammation and pain. Heat therapy can be used for a longer duration, up to 30 minutes, to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension and pain.

Can a brace be helpful for a tennis elbow?

A brace can help the elbow can help provide support to the muscles and unload the joint, which can reduce the symptoms of tennis elbow. It’s important to ensure the wrap is not too tight, so as to not restrict circulation. If a brace helps the symptoms, it should not be assumed that continuing to wear it will solve the problem on its own. Stretching and strengthening of the muscles which are actually the cause of the symptoms should be guided and progressed by a physiotherapist.

About Serah Park

Serah graduated with Honours from the University of Alberta Physical Therapy Program in 2000. She has experience with a variety of patients having worked at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital in Edmonton, WCB/Millard Health in Edmonton in programs for acute, occupational rehab and repetitive strain injuries, before working over a decade in a prominent manual therapy clinic in the Yorkville area of downtown Toronto. Serah has volunteered her time with various organizations including a medical missionary team to Cambodia, the Ontario Physiotherapy Association and the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. She has also served as a volunteer physiotherapist for the 2001 World Track and Field Championships as well as a speaker at the Running Room’s various learn to run clinics.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

Risk Factors for Tennis Elbow: Age, Other Arm Injuries, and Lifestyle Factors