Elbow Injuries

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is a condition caused by the overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (outer part of the elbow). It commonly affects athletes and individuals who perform repetitive wrist and arm motions, such as tennis players or workers who use hand tools.

Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow.

• Weak grip strength.

• Discomfort when lifting or gripping objects.

Our Treatment Approach: We use a combination of manual therapy techniques, including soft tissue release, joint mobilization, and eccentric strengthening exercises to help repair the damaged tendon. Education on activity modification and ergonomic adjustments are also key to prevent future strain.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow is similar to tennis elbow but affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow (medial epicondyle). It is caused by overuse or strain on the muscles and tendons responsible for wrist and finger flexion.

Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow.

• Pain worsens with wrist flexion or gripping.

• Stiffness in the elbow.

Our Treatment Approach: Physiotherapy for golfer’s elbow includes manual therapy, targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strength, and progressive loading to enhance tendon healing. We may also use modalities like ultrasound and dry needling to reduce pain and inflammation.

Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis)

Elbow bursitis occurs when the olecranon bursa, a fluid-filled sac at the back of the elbow, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is often due to repetitive pressure on the elbow, trauma, or infection.

Symptoms:

• Swelling and redness at the back of the elbow.

• Pain with movement or direct pressure on the elbow.

• Restricted range of motion in severe cases.

Our Treatment Approach: Our physiotherapists will reduce inflammation through modalities like cryotherapy (ice therapy), ultrasound, and compression. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises will be introduced as the pain subsides to restore full elbow function.

2. Wrist Injuries

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, is compressed. This condition is common in individuals who perform repetitive hand movements, such as typing or manual labor.

Symptoms:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.

• Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects.

• Pain that may radiate up the arm.

Our Treatment Approach: Our clinic offers personalized treatment plans that may include nerve gliding exercises, manual therapy to release tension in the forearm muscles, wrist splinting, and ergonomic advice. We also teach patients how to modify activities to reduce pressure on the median nerve.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the tendons around the base of the thumb. It commonly affects individuals who perform repetitive thumb and wrist movements, such as texting or lifting.

Symptoms:

• Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb.

• Difficulty with thumb movements, such as gripping or pinching.

• Pain worsens with wrist movements.

Our Treatment Approach: Physiotherapy for De Quervain’s focuses on reducing inflammation and improving the mobility of the affected tendons. We use manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, and thumb stabilizing exercises to relieve pain and restore function.

Wrist Sprains

A wrist sprain occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn due to sudden force, such as a fall or twist. This can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced wrist mobility.

Symptoms:

• Pain and swelling in the wrist.

• Difficulty moving the wrist or hand.

• Bruising around the wrist.

Our Treatment Approach: We use a combination of joint mobilizations, taping techniques, and progressive strengthening exercises to promote healing and restore function. Education on wrist protection and safe movement patterns will be provided to prevent re-injury.

3. Hand Injuries

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the finger become inflamed, causing the finger to "catch" or lock in a bent position. It is common in people who perform repetitive gripping actions.

Symptoms:

• Pain and stiffness when bending or straightening the finger.

• A clicking or popping sensation when moving the finger.

• The finger may lock in a bent position.

Our Treatment Approach: Physiotherapy treatment includes soft tissue mobilization, stretching, and specific exercises to reduce tendon inflammation and improve finger movement. In some cases, splinting may be recommended to keep the finger in an extended position to aid healing.

Dupuytren’s Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand condition where the fascia (connective tissue) under the skin of the palm thickens and tightens, causing the fingers to curl inward. It is often seen in middle-aged and older adults.

Symptoms:

• Thickened tissue in the palm, often forming a lump.

• The fingers, especially the ring and pinky fingers, become progressively bent.

• Difficulty in straightening the fingers.

Our Treatment Approach: Our clinic uses a combination of stretching exercises, soft tissue mobilization, and manual therapy to improve flexibility in the affected fingers. We also provide guidance on hand exercises to maintain function and slow down the progression of the contracture.

Skier’s Thumb (Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury)

Skier’s thumb is an injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb, typically caused by a fall where the thumb is forced backward or outward. This injury is common in skiing accidents but can also occur during other activities.

Symptoms:

• Pain and swelling at the base of the thumb.

• Weakness when pinching or gripping objects.

• Instability of the thumb joint.

Our Treatment Approach: Our physiotherapists will focus on pain management, restoring thumb stability, and gradually strengthening the thumb through tailored exercises. In some cases, taping or splinting is used to support the thumb during healing.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

At our clinic, we provide a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plan for upper body injuries. Our approach includes:

• Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and manipulations to restore movement.

• Exercise therapy: Strengthening and mobility exercises tailored to your specific injury.

• Pain management: Use of modalities like ultrasound, acupuncture, and taping to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Education: We empower our patients with knowledge on posture, ergonomics, and activity modification to prevent future injuries.

By addressing the root cause of your injury and providing a personalized rehabilitation program, we help you recover quickly and effectively.

References:

1. Physio-Pedia. (2024). Tennis Elbow. https://www.physio-pedia.com/Tennis_Elbow

2. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603

3. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). (2024). Dupuytren's Contracture. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/dupuytrens-contracture