Tennis Elbow and Beyond: How Osteopathy Can Help with Elbow Pain
Elbow pain can be frustrating, not only because it limits your ability to do the things you love, but because it can be quite persistent and flare up when you least expect it. Whether it’s gripping a coffee mug, lifting your child, or even swinging a tennis racket, discomfort in the elbow can impact daily life in a big way. One of the most common culprits? Tennis elbow.
Despite the name, you don’t have to be a tennis player to get it.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury affecting the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It often develops from repetitive movements like typing, gardening, DIY, or lifting, that strain the forearm muscles over time and can cause inflammation at the point where they attach to the elbow. The result? Pain, tenderness, and sometimes weakness when gripping or lifting.
Other Common Elbow Conditions
While tennis elbow gets most of the attention, it’s not the only source of elbow pain. Other conditions we see in clinic include:
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) – similar to tennis elbow, but affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow.
- Olecranon bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sac at the tip of the elbow, often caused by direct pressure or trauma.
- Elbow joint restrictions or arthritis – leading to stiffness, reduced mobility, or a dull, achy pain.
Whatever the cause, elbow issues can be slow to heal without the right support. That’s where osteopathy can make a real difference.
How Osteopathy Helps with Elbow Pain
Osteopaths take a holistic view of the body, looking at how joints, muscles, nerves, and movement patterns all work together. When treating elbow pain, we assess not only the elbow itself but also the shoulder, wrist, and neck… areas that often contribute to strain or compensation.
Using hands on techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint articulation, and stretching, we work to:
- Reduce inflammation and muscle tension
- Improve circulation and promote healing
- Restore mobility to the affected area
- Address any underlying postural or movement imbalances
We may also offer advice on modifying your activities, suggest simple rehab exercises or supports, or look at your workstation ergonomics if repetitive strain is a factor.
Getting You Back to Doing What You Love
Elbow problems can be stubborn, but with the right approach, they’re very treatable. Whether you’re an athlete, an office worker, or a busy parent, osteopathy offers a natural, personalised way to relieve pain and get your elbow moving again—without relying on painkillers or invasive procedures.
If you’ve been putting up with elbow pain and want to get to the root of the problem, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to get your elbow (and your life) back on track. Click book now for an appointment with me in WIncanton.