Chiropractic Santa Barbara wants you to know as much as possible about elbow pain. Tennis Elbow, the typical name for pain emanating from the outside, or lateral side, of the elbow happens when one or more tendons of the forearm muscles become irritated or inflamed. These tendons join to the bony protuberance close to the elbow joint, referred to the lateral epicondyle, hence the medical name, “lateral epicondylitis,” in essence inflammation of the epicondyle.
If the affliction is located on the inside, or medial side, of the elbow it is often called Golfer’s Elbow or medial epicondylitis. This, however, is not as prevalent as lateral epicondylitis. There are many whys and wherefores for epicondylitis – not just tennis and golf – as any activity or sport that requires repetitive gripping of objects can result in this problem.
Inappropriate wrist and arm posture while carrying heavy bags, knitting, chopping food, and/or using a computer can also cause “tennis” or “golfer’s” elbow. With sports, the condition occurs when a person, who is new to a particular game, uses an awkward technique, tries out new rackets or clubs, or adds to the intensity or duration of exercise without effective preparation. On occasion cases involving epicondylitis can be attributed to complications farther up the arm or even in the neck.
If an individual has a disc complication or spinal subluxation, the nerves that control the forearm muscles may become inflamed producing tense muscles and putting heightened strain on the tendon attachment(s). This creates a predisposition to elbow pain whatever the exacerbating cause. If ignored, joints of the elbow can become subluxated further, and even arthritis can be a complication of the condition.
Examination and treatment by a qualified chiropractor, such as your Santa Barbara chiropractor can fix the problem and eliminate future complications. Epicondylitis is a condition that rarely resolves of its own accord and so requires proper health management. A qualified professional such as a chiropractor can determine the exact cause of the problem and initiate the proper care and treatment. In a chiropractic clinic this might include modalities such as ultrasound, electro-therapy, massage, hot and cold therapies, bracing, and home stretching and exercises. Chiropractic care has proved, in the majority of instances, to be extraordinarily beneficial in the most comprehensive management of this problem.
