Elbow Epicondylitis Treatment in Bend, OR
Elbow epicondylitis is a medical condition characterized by pain/inflammation along the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow (known as the lateral epicondyle) or the inner side of the elbow (medial epicondyle). Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle. Medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow, is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle. Both conditions can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected arm.
Early treatment of elbow epicondylitis is essential because, if left untreated, the condition can become chronic and more difficult to manage. Early treatment can help to reduce pain and inflammation and prevent further damage to the affected tendons and muscles. Additionally, early treatment can help to prevent the condition from interfering with daily activities and impacting quality of life. Treatment options include rest, bracing, activity modification, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be performed.
What are the Symptoms of Elbow Epicondylitis?
The symptoms of elbow epicondylitis can vary depending on which part of the elbow is affected. Lateral epicondylitis typically causes pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. This pain may also radiate down the forearm. Activities that involve gripping or twisting, such as playing tennis or using a screwdriver, can exacerbate the pain. Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, typically causes pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. This pain may also radiate down the forearm. Activities that involve gripping or flexing the wrist, such as golfing or pitching a baseball, can exacerbate the pain. In both types of epicondylitis, the affected arm may feel weak and stiff, and the range of motion may be limited. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How Can Physical Therapy Improve Elbow Epicondylitis?
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for elbow epicondylitis. Alpine’s physical therapists are skilled in treating lateral epicondylitis and medial epicondylitis. As these are often conditions of overuse, we will evaluate your movement patterns throughout your neck, shoulder, and the arm, addressing both the root causes of your condition and designing a personalized exercise program tailored to your unique symptoms and goals.
A physical therapist can help you stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and tendons, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility. They may also use techniques such as massage and manual therapy to help decrease pain and inflammation. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper biomechanics and ergonomics to help prevent further injury. The specific type of physical therapy prescribed will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition. Working closely with your physical therapist to develop an appropriate treatment plan is essential.
Let's Get Started. Finding an Elbow Epicondylitis Physical Therapist in Bend, OR
If you have persistent pain in your elbow, consider Alpine Physical Therapy to get you on the road to recovery. By seeking treatment early, you can help reduce the risks associated with long-term complications and improve your chances of a full recovery. As active Central Oregonians, some of our team members have experienced this condition firsthand and have unique knowledge in treating it. Let’s get you back out there!
Our physical therapists come from various backgrounds, each with different areas of expertise. When you call for an appointment, we can help pair you with a physical therapist best suited to your concern. Our physical therapists are adept at treating elbow epicondylitis and look forward to meeting you.