What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow describes pain associated with the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, you do not need to play tennis to experience it. Repeated gripping, lifting or using the wrist and arm can be involved, although an assessment is needed to understand your particular symptoms.
You might notice discomfort when shaking hands, opening a jar or lifting an object, as well as tenderness around the elbow. Pain can also extend into the forearm. Elbow pain has different possible causes, so these signs alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.
Because nerves from the neck supply the arm, we also check for neck pain that may be adding to your elbow symptoms.
How an osteopath assesses elbow pain
Your appointment begins with a discussion of when your pain started, the activities that bring it on and how it affects work, sport and daily life. Dr Austin may examine movement and sensitivity around the elbow and forearm, and consider other relevant areas. The assessment helps determine whether osteopathic care is appropriate or whether further medical assessment is needed.
Tell your practitioner about any changes in sensation, swelling or previous injuries, and bring relevant reports if you have them.
An ergonomic assessment of your desk or work tools can reduce the repetitive strain that keeps tennis elbow coming back.
If you live or work nearby, you can book with an osteopath in Darlinghurst for hands-on tennis elbow care.
Care for tennis elbow
Depending on your assessment and preferences, care may include hands-on techniques, advice about adjusting activities and exercises suited to your needs. For someone who spends long periods at a desk, this might include discussing how work tasks are organised; a person who plays racquet sports may want to discuss their usual training load. Changes are tailored to the individual, not a fixed timetable.
Learn more about osteopathy and the clinic’s ergonomic assessment.
When to seek medical advice
See a doctor if you are concerned about your elbow pain, or if you develop worsening pain, unusual swelling, altered sensation or colour changes in your arm or fingers, or redness and heat around the area or fever. These symptoms should not be assumed to be tennis elbow.
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