top of page
Search
Writer's pictureAcuLife

Tennis and Golfer's Elbow: How Acupuncture Can Help

Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow are common conditions that cause pain in the arm and elbow, often resulting from repetitive strain or overuse. Both conditions can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers an effective treatment option for managing these conditions.

What Are Tennis and Golfer's Elbow?

  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): This condition involves pain on the outside of the elbow, caused by inflammation of the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the elbow. It commonly results from repetitive wrist and arm motions, not just from playing tennis but from activities like typing, painting, or using tools.

  • Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): This condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. It is also a result of overuse, but it affects the tendons that attach to the forearm muscles on the inner side of the elbow. Activities such as golfing, throwing sports, and repetitive gripping can trigger this condition.


Symptoms and Triggers

  • Symptoms: Both conditions share similar symptoms, including pain and tenderness around the elbow, weakened grip strength, and discomfort when lifting or bending the arm. The pain can radiate down the forearm in severe cases.

  • Triggers: Repetitive motions and overuse are the primary triggers. In tennis elbow, actions like racquet sports, painting, and carpentry are common causes. Golfer's elbow is often triggered by activities like golfing, throwing, and heavy lifting.


Prevalence in Australia

These conditions are fairly common among Australians, particularly those engaged in repetitive manual activities or sports. It's estimated that tennis elbow affects about 1-3% of the population annually, while golfer's elbow is less common but still significant.


Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective

In TCM, tennis and golfer's elbow are often viewed as a result of blockages in blood flow, particularly in the meridians running through the arms. This stagnation can lead to pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility. TCM aims to restore correct blood flow, decrease inflammation and promote healing for the root cause of the problem.


TCM Therapies we do!

Acupuncture:

  • How It Works: Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and enhance blood circulation. For elbow pain, acupuncture can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote tissue healing.

  • Benefits: Patients often experience reduced pain, improved arm function, and quicker recovery times. Acupuncture also helps in relaxing the muscles around the affected area, reducing overall strain and preventing injury recurrence.


Chinese Herbal Medicine:

  • How It Works: Herbal formulas can complement acupuncture by addressing internal imbalances and promoting healing from within. Known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, herbs that are specifically prescribed to each patient help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and provide analgesic effects.


Moxibustion

How It Works:

  • Moxibustion involves burning a herb called moxa (mugwort) near the skin to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi and dispel cold and dampness.

Benefits:

  • Enhances circulation and promotes healing.

  • Provides warmth to the affected area, reducing pain and stiffness.

Application:

  • Moxa sticks or cones are used near the elbow to target pain and inflammation.


Cupping Therapy

How It Works:

  • Cupping involves placing glass or silicone cups on the skin to create suction, which helps to increase blood flow and reduce muscle tension. Cups are typically placed around the affected elbow and forearm area for several minutes.

Benefits:

  • Reduces pain and inflammation.

  • Relieves muscle tightness and promotes healing.


Dietary Adjustments

How It Works:

  • Diet plays a crucial role in TCM, and certain foods can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

  • Emphasis on a balanced diet that supports the body's overall function and blood quality.

Recommended Foods:

  • Warming Foods: Such as ginger, turmeric, and garlic can help to improve circulation and reduce pain.

  • Anti-inflammatory Foods: Omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts help reduce inflammation.

  • Protein-rich Foods: To support tissue repair, including lean meats, fish, and legumes.

  • Hydrating Foods: Like cucumbers, watermelon, and soups to maintain fluid balance.

  • Nourishing Foods: Bone broth and leafy greens provide essential nutrients for tissue repair.


Foods to Avoid:

  • Processed Foods: Which can increase inflammation.

  • Sugary Foods and Drinks: That can exacerbate inflammation and pain.

  • Cold and Raw Foods: Which can slow down digestion and Qi flow.


Effectiveness of Acupuncture

Studies and patient reports indicate that acupuncture can be highly effective in treating tennis and golfer's elbow. Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function after a few sessions. The treatment is often seen as a beneficial complement to other therapies, enhancing overall recovery.


What Patients Need to Know

For those considering acupuncture for tennis or golfer's elbow, it's important to:

  • Expect a Holistic Approach: Treatment may involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle advice.

  • Be Patient: While many experience relief after a few sessions, chronic conditions may require longer treatment durations for sustained benefits.

  • Monitor Progress: Keep track of symptoms and improvements, and communicate with the practitioner to adjust treatments as needed.


In conclusion, tennis and golfer's elbow are common yet manageable conditions. Acupuncture, supported by Chinese herbal medicine, offers a promising, natural approach to treatment, helping to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.


To learn what we can do for you, Contact our team today👇


AcuLife

(02) 4620 9798

5 Stewart St, Harrington Park

bottom of page