Exercise Right Week 22-28 May

Exercise Right Week is an annual awareness campaign aimed to highlight the benefits of exercise for health and well-being, and to help Australians to understand where to get the “right” advice for their individual needs.

The campaign is brought to you by Exercise & Sports Science Australia who is dedicated to helping Australians live healthier and more active lives.

CLINIC CORNER - TENNIS ELBOW

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects the outer part of the elbow. It is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (a bony bump on the outer part of the elbow).
Tennis elbow is not just limited to tennis players. It can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, such as carpenters, painters, plumbers, and even computer users.

The onset of symptoms is sometimes without aggravation or apparent cause and can be common in peri and menopausal women as oestrogen levels drop.
Symptoms  include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, loss of  grip strength, and difficulty performing everyday activities such as opening a door, using a tin opener or gripping a pen.

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for tennis elbow. It aims to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and strengthen the muscles and tendons of the forearm.  Physios also use modalities like dry needling, tape, massage and joint mobilizations and stretches. There may be referred pain involved as well so treatment will include managing any associated neck and upper back issues as well as localised treatment. 

With the right treatment and exercises, most people with tennis elbow can recover fully and return to their normal activities without pain  - early intervention makes a big difference in how long symptoms persist so don't wait to seek help if you have the onset of elbow pain!