Tennis elbow is also known as 'lateral epicondylitis'. Contrary to popular belief, playing tennis is not the only cause for tennis elbow. In fact, people who suffer from this problem have hardly played the game. In this condition the outer part of the elbow becomes painful and tender. The pain causes the movements of the elbow to be constrained. Simple actions such as lifting, gripping and carrying become difficult. One of the strongest reasons for this condition is the overuse of muscles i.e. the muscles which pull the hand backwards (the wrist extensors). Over straining causes an inflammation that may be swollen, painful and tender. Injury to the arm can be another reason for inflammation. Tennis elbow is mainly caused when some activities like gripping, twisting, reaching and moving are done in an improper manner or an awkward position, repetitive stress, excess force and no time for recovery provided for the wear and tear.
Some of the movements which can be restricted or can avoid repetitiveness are continuous rotation of the forearm and bending of the wrist, gripping in a stressful position by combining inward and outward movement of the forearm, throwing motions and gestures that strike objects with hand.
Common symptoms to be aware when affected by tennis elbow
Your forearm suffers recurring pain on the outside of the upper forearm. The pain is branched out from the arm towards the wrist. Pain while lifting or bending the arm. Pain while grasping small and light objects could be sign of concern. Trouble or discomfort while extending the arm. Pain which lasts for 6 to 12 weeks or even more.
Common tips to remember
* Resting is one of the best solutions to treat this problem.
* You can use braces which are available in various sports shop. It is very helpful in relieving pain from tennis elbow problem.
* Try to lift objects with your palm facing your body.
* Being aware of the problem and treating it immediately.
* Use machines instead of your hands to avoid any repetition.
* Allow job rotations for everyone to get used to different muscles.
* Use ergonomically designed tools that prevent strain on your hands.
Home remedies for Tennis Elbow
For the inflamed elbow you can use ice compress which helps in decreasing the pain. Ice helps in slowing down the local metabolism, thus helps in relieving pain and muscle spasm.
Use massage therapy
Do your regular stretching exercises to prevent any kind of friction to your forearms. The stretching helps in strengthening the forearms.
Some exercises you can do to help strengthen your muscles. With the palm facing the ceiling, place your forearm on a desk with the wrist tucked over the edge. Grip any heavy object like a hammer or a two-pound juice can. Lift your hand up and down by moving your wrist, repeat this 20 times. Do this with the both the arms.
Warm and baked potato applied to the elbow can help relief the pain of tennis elbow.
Acupuncture can be used for treating tennis elbow problem. As it stimulates nervous system and also releases pain-relieving endorphins.
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
Source: Health Guidance
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