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Lateral epicondylitis - Tennis elbow
Signs or Symptoms
Localized pain and ache that is found on the inner side of your elbow
Description
Tennis elbow is a form of tendonitis or inflammation of the tendons near the elbow joint.
Causes
This is a ligament- muscle condition caused by overuse of the muscles causing the tendon to become inflamed.
Standard Treatment
Rest, supports, and anti-inflammatories are given.
AK Approach
The elbow can be injured by either immediate direct trauma or by repeated micro trauma. If the injury occurred from a single trauma, the examination is directed immediately to the severity of the injury. Otherwise, the examination is more general as to the total functioning of the upper extremity. It is rare to find an elbow injury without a preexisting weakness in the legs, torso or shoulder. As the elbow is placed at a disadvantage by a weakness in the legs, torso or shoulder the examination begins by looking for factors in these areas that would adversely affect elbow stability.
Locally, the stability of the major ligaments of the elbow is then tested for. The muscles that support the elbow are evaluated to find the ones that are malfunctioning. These are corrected and then tested for the need of corrective exercises.
The attention is then shifted to the localized structures that are injured and failing to support the elbow joint properly. These can include specialized treatments for ligaments, muscles, skin and joints. Finally, attention is directed to corrective procedures that can help coordinate the muscles to help prevent future injuries.
Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would speed healing and reduce any inflammation are considered.
A specific program for your needs is created.