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Tennis elbow is an inflammation of the outside of the elbow, technically named lateral epicondylitis. The muscles of the back of the forearm run from the wrist to the elbow, where they attach to the upper arm bone (the humerus). It is this tendon, and the surrounding outer layer of bone that become inflamed in tennis elbow. Any movement of the muscle, which puts stress on the tendon, will then cause the characteristic pain of tennis elbow. It is not just tennis backhands that put a stress on the muscles of the forearm and their attached tendon. Activities such as using a screwdriver, typing, or writing can all cause the typical tennis elbow pain. Since tennis elbow affects the straightening of the wrist, you can test for it by lifting a weight, such as a book, with your palm facing down. Any pain in the outside of the elbow suggests you have tennis elbow. Thus tennis elbow is not so much a problem with the elbow joint, as with overuse of the muscles that are connected to the elbow - those same muscles which extend or straighten the wrist - as in the tennis backhand. Too much tension in the muscle group can also cause a decrease in the joint space in the elbow and actual inflammation of the joint. In time this can cause not just the typical pain from the epicondylitis, but also from the elbow joint itself. Treatment normally consists of some lifestyle modification, plus anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medication. Physiotherapy such as TENS, ultrasound, laser therapy, and interferential current can also prove helpful. Chiropractic treatments are also helpful. These include soft-tissue techniques such as Graston, active release, or cross-fiber friction massage. Chiropractic adjustment of the elbow joint, can also bring relief. By doing a chiropractic adjustment, pressure is taken of the joint by briefly separarting the joint surfaces by just a couple of millimeters. Easing that pressure eases the pain. Sometimes some manipulation of the wrist can also help. The theory is that since the muscles involved with this condition help to move the wrist, it should aid in the speed of recovery if the wrist motion is maintained. If the wrist tightens, the muscles need to work harder to move the wrist. This results in tightness in the wrist extensors which then exacerbates the condition. Another therapy that can be very helpful is the use of an elbow band. This works by transferring the tendon's tension from its attachment to the bone (where it causes the pain) to the band instead. Of course rest would be the best medicine. But if you are not able to completely remove yourself from your chores, then be certain that when lifting to keep the palm of your hand turned upward so that the wrist flexors are used more that the wrist extensors. You can also try supplementing with Vitamin B6 and limiting your salt intake as it helps to reduce the amount of water taken in by the body. Overall, if you suspect you may have this condition, it is best to have it assessed by your chiropractor and/or medical doctor in order to have the proper treatment plan started that will assist in accelerated recovery.
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