Understanding Lateral and Medial Elbow Pain: How Physiotherapy Can Work Wonders

If you’ve ever felt a sharp twinge or nagging ache around your elbow—whether from swinging a tennis racket, typing at your desk, or lifting something heavy—you might be dealing with lateral or medial elbow pain. Commonly known as "tennis elbow" (lateral epicondylalgia) and "golfer’s elbow" (medial epicondylalgia), these conditions affect millions of people, not just athletes. The good news? Physiotherapy can often provide fantastic relief, helping you get back to doing what you love without discomfort. Let’s dive into what these conditions are, why they happen, and how experts like Dr. Leanne Bisset have shown that physiotherapy can be a game-changer.

What’s Going On with Your Elbow?

Your elbow is a hardworking joint, connecting your upper arm to your forearm with a network of bones, muscles, and tendons. Lateral elbow pain happens on the outer side of the elbow, where the tendons of your forearm extensor muscles (the ones that help you lift your wrist) attach. Medial elbow pain, on the other hand, strikes the inner side, where the flexor tendons (which help you bend your wrist) connect. Despite their sporty nicknames, these issues often stem from everyday repetitive tasks—like gripping tools, typing, or even gardening—rather than just sports.

Historically, these conditions were thought to be all about inflammation, but research, including Dr. Leanne Bisset’s work, has shifted that thinking. In her 2015 paper, "Physiotherapy Management of Lateral Epicondylalgia," published in the Journal of Physiotherapy, Dr. Bisset explains that the pain is more about tendon overload and degeneration than a simple inflammatory response. Over time, repetitive strain can weaken these tendons, leading to pain and reduced function. It’s not just athletes who suffer—manual workers, office folks, and even hobbyists can feel the pinch.

Why Does It Hurt?

Imagine your tendons as tough, elastic ropes. When you overuse them—say, by swinging a racket or hammering nails day after day—they can start to change. For lateral elbow pain, the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon is often the culprit, while medial pain typically involves the flexor tendons. The pain might start as a mild annoyance but can escalate, making it tough to grip a coffee mug or turn a doorknob. You might even feel it radiating down your forearm or up toward your shoulder.

Dr. Bisset’s research highlights that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all problem. Some people recover quickly, while others struggle for months. Factors like high pain levels, a manual job, or symptoms lasting over three months can make recovery trickier. That’s where physiotherapy steps in—not just to reduce the pain, but to tackle the root cause and rebuild strength.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Here’s the exciting part: physiotherapy can work wonders for both lateral and medial elbow pain. Dr. Bisset’s paper, alongside other studies, shows that a tailored approach can reduce pain, restore function, and prevent the problem from coming back. Here’s how it works:

• Exercise: The Star Player

Strengthening and stretching exercises are the backbone of treatment. For tennis elbow, isometric exercises—where you statically hold a contraction—have been shown to be particularly effective. A 2021 study in Physical Therapy found that these exercises improve tendon health and grip strength over time. For golfer’s elbow, similar principles apply, targeting the flexor muscles. A physio will guide you through moves like resisted extensions &/or flexions, starting gently and building up as your elbow heals.

• Manual Therapy: Hands-On Healing

Techniques like joint mobilisation or soft tissue massage can ease pain and improve movement. Dr. Bisset notes that combining manual therapy with exercise often delivers faster results. Picture your physio gently mobilising your elbow or massaging the tight spots in the connecting muscles—it’s like giving your tendons a little TLC to help them recover.

• Taping and Bracing: Extra Support

A simple elbow strap or some cleverly applied tape can take pressure off the sore tendons, letting them heal while you stay active. Studies, including one from the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2013, suggest this can boost short-term comfort and function.

• Education: Knowledge Is Power

Your physio will teach you how to tweak your daily habits—whether it’s adjusting your grip or pacing your activities—to avoid aggravating the pain. Dr. Bisset emphasises this step, especially for those with stubborn symptoms, as it helps manage the load on your elbow long-term.

• Multimodal Magic

The best outcomes often come from blending these approaches. Dr. Bisset’s research supports a multimodal plan—think exercise plus manual therapy—especially for severe cases. It’s like a team effort to get your elbow back in top shape.

When to See a Physio

If your elbow’s been grumbling for more than a few weeks, or if gripping things feels like a chore, it’s time to chat with a physiotherapist at Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy. They’ll assess your pain, test your strength, and craft a plan just for you. Dr. Bisset’s work reminds us that early action is key—don’t wait until the pain’s unbearable.

The Bottom Line

Lateral and medial elbow pain might slow you down, but they don’t have to stop you. Thanks to experts like Dr. Leanne Bisset, we know physiotherapy offers a powerful, evidence-based way to fight back. With the right mix of exercises, hands-on care, and smart advice, you can wave goodbye to that elbow ache and get back to living life on your terms. So, if your elbow’s sending SOS signals, why not give physiotherapy a swing? Your tendons will thank you!

This is APA Sports Physiotherapist, Darren Glendenning, signing off for now!

You can book an appointment with Darren or Newcastle Knights Physiotherapists Katie or Hayd'n at www.upnadamptphysio.com

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