The elbow is a
complex joint that allows movements of flexion, extension, and rotation. Most daily activities require a combination
of these actions to produce motion in the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand. Two common elbow injuries include Golfer's Elbow (GE) and Tennis Elbow (TE). Both of these elbow conditions can cause pain
and weakness which results in functional limitations with
gripping, pushing, pulling, and lifting activities of the affected arm.
Golfer's Elbow (GE) is medically known as medial epicondylitis and causes the inner part of the elbow to become sore and tender. This typically affects the muscles and tendons that flex the fingers and wrist, and roll the forearm inwards.
Tennis
Elbow (TE)
is medically known as lateral
epicondylitis and causes the outer part of the elbow to become sore and
tender. This typically affects the
muscles and tendons that extend the fingers and wrist, and roll the forearm
outwards.
GE and TE can affect anyone
involved in activities that require rapid and/or repetitive motion of muscles
and joints in the forearm, wrist, and hand.
It is more likely to happen if these movements are combined with awkward
posture(s), excessive force, poor technique, and using the wrong equipment or
tool. Occasionally, a direct blow to the
elbow may be a causative factor. Physical
deconditioning can also make individuals susceptible to these conditions.
GE and TE can affect a
broad variety of people including: trade
workers such as electricians, painters, and carpenters; recreational athletes
such as tennis players and golfers; and labourers such as cleaners and assembly
line workers. Computer use, and even
hobbies like gardening and knitting can be associated with GE and TE.
It is important to
establish an accurate diagnosis of GE and TE.
This can be accomplished by performing a proper medical history, along with
a physical examination. Other causes of
elbow pain may include: fractures, bursitis, arthritis, sprains, nerve
irritation, or referred pain from the neck and/or shoulder region. Any elbow injury with obvious evidence or suspicion of fracture or
joint dislocation necessitates the need for emergency medical care.
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals skilled in
diagnosing and treating muscle and joint conditions such as GE and TE. Initially, relative rest and altering or eliminating the
conditions that contributed to the injury is important. This may include making changes to a work station, using the
correct tools/equipment, and taking breaks to relax overworked muscles and
joints. Treatment options
include electrotherapy, acupuncture, ultrasound, taping, bracing, specialized
soft tissue therapy, and manual joint mobilization. In addition, a comprehensive rehabilitation
program should also include stretching and strengthening exercises that target
the muscles of the forearm, upper arm, shoulder and upper back.
If elbow pain is keeping
you away from your favourite activities, consider chiropractic care. A chiropractor will assess your symptoms,
diagnose your condition, and recommend a treatment plan to put you on the road
to recovery. For more information, visit
www.nhwc.ca.
This
article is a basic summary for educational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be
considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly
licensed health practitioner.
No comments:
Post a Comment