Effective Chiropractic Care for Lateral Elbow Pain

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a very common condition that occurs when the wrist extensor tendon which attaches just above the outside of the elbow, becomes overloaded. This overload leads to inflammation and, in many cases, small tendon tears. Despite the name, tennis elbow is far more commonly seen in manual workers and people performing repetitive tasks than in racquet sports.

At Joondalup Chiropractic, we regularly help patients resolve tennis elbow by identifying the true cause of the overload and guiding recovery with evidence-based care.

Why Tennis Elbow Develops

Tennis elbow is most often a sign of weakness rather than overuse alone. Symptoms usually appear after a sudden increase in load that the tendon is not prepared to tolerate.

Common triggers include:

• Manual handling and repetitive work

• Gardening and frequent use of secateurs

• Fencing work and repetitive gripping with pliers

• Sudden increases in gym or work demands using a mouse

When load exceeds tendon capacity, the tendon becomes painful and vulnerable to tearing.

Strength, Not Rest, Is the Key

Modern understanding of tendon injuries shows that strengthening is essential for recovery. While short-term load reduction may be required, rest alone rarely resolves tennis elbow.

Effective management often includes:

• Progressive strength loading of the wrist and forearm extensors

• Dry needling to reduce pain and muscle inhibition

• Massage and soft tissue therapy to improve tendon and muscle function

This approach restores tendon capacity and reduces the risk of recurrence.

The Role of the Neck in Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow does not always originate at the elbow. The outer elbow region is supplied by the C6 nerve root, which exits the spine between C6 and C7 in the neck.

If there is irritation or restriction in the cervical spine:

• Nerve pain can mimic tennis elbow

• Elbow symptoms may persist despite local treatment

We have seen many cases where tennis elbow failed to settle with conventional approaches, only to resolve quickly once skilled cervical adjustments relieved nerve root tension. This is a well-recognised mechanism in chiropractic care and can be a very effective solution when nerve involvement is present.

When Injections Are (and Are Not) Appropriate

Because the wrist extensor tendon has a tendency to tear rather than simply inflame, cortisone injections are strongly discouraged for tennis elbow. While cortisone may provide short-term pain relief, it:

• Weakens tendon tissue

• Increases the risk of further tearing

• Is associated with more severe and recurrent episodes

If imaging confirms tendon tearing and symptoms fail to improve with conservative care, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections from a sports doctor may be considered. PRP aims to stimulate healing rather than suppress inflammation.

Chiropractic Care for Tennis Elbow

Chiropractic care provides a safe and effective treatment option by addressing both the local tendon injury and contributing factors higher up the arm and spine.

Treatment may include:

• Cervical spine adjustments to reduce nerve irritation

• Dry needling and soft tissue therapy

• Progressive strengthening programs

• Advice on load management and activity modification

By treating the elbow, the neck and the biomechanics of the upper limb together, outcomes are often faster and longer lasting.

Tennis Elbow Care You Can Trust in Joondalup

If you are dealing with persistent outer elbow pain, weakness or difficulty gripping, early assessment can prevent long-term tendon damage.

Book an appointment today for experienced tennis elbow treatment in Joondalup and get a clear plan to restore strength, reduce pain and prevent recurrence.