Does Massage Help With Tennis and Golf Elbow Pain?
Tennis and golf elbow (clinically known as lateral and medial epicondylitis respectively) are painful conditions affecting the tendons of the elbow. While the names suggest a connection to sports, these injuries often result from repetitive motions or overuse rather than athletic activities.
Understanding Tennis and Golf Elbow
Tennis elbow typically involves pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow, affecting the muscles and tendons responsible for wrist and finger extension. Golfer elbow, on the other hand, affects the inner part of the elbow, impacting the muscles and tendons involved in wrist flexion and forearm rotation.
Quick Tip:
For tennis elbow, ease pain at home by icing the outside of your elbow for 10 minutes or gently stretching your wrist and forearm.
Causes and Symptoms:
Common causes of tennis and golf elbow include repetitive gripping motions, overuse of the forearm muscles, poor technique during physical activities, and tightness in the forearm muscles. Symptoms may include pain and tenderness around the affected area, difficulty gripping objects, weakness in the forearm, and discomfort when performing certain movements.
The Role of Massage Therapy:
Massage therapy offers a holistic approach to treating tennis and golf elbow by addressing muscle tension, promoting circulation, and reducing inflammation. Deep tissue massage techniques can target the affected muscles and tendons, helping to alleviate pain, break up scar tissue, and improve flexibility.
Benefits of Massage Therapy for Tennis and Golf Elbow
Quick tip:
For golfer’s elbow relief at home, try gently stretching your wrist and forearm or icing the inside of your elbow for 10 minutes.
Pain Relief: Deep tissue massage helps to relieve pain and discomfort associated with tennis and golf elbow by targeting trigger points and releasing tension in the affected muscles.
Improved Circulation: Massage therapy enhances blood flow to the injured area, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients essential for tissue repair and healing.
Enhanced Flexibility: By breaking up scar tissue and adhesions, massage therapy can improve the range of motion and flexibility in the elbow joint, promoting recovery and preventing future injury.
If you’re in pain, we want to help right away!
Betsy Burkart LMBT#7141 owner of Key of Life Wellness & Massage in Charlotte, N.C., is well-versed in sports-related injuries and has effectively been relieving pain associated with tennis and golfers elbow with specialized techniques. Take advantage of our 20% Off New Client Special for a 60-minute massage where we’ll focus on helping you heal so you can get back to the court or green!
Call us today or book online here for a fast, secure appointment process.
