Elbow Pain & Tendonitis Treatment
in Overland Park

About Our Elbow Pain & Tendonitis Treatment

Elbow pain and tendonitis can make everyday activities like lifting, gripping, or typing uncomfortable. Our physical therapy approach focuses on reducing pain, restoring strength, and improving mobility through targeted exercises, hands-on treatment, and load-management strategies to help the tendon heal and prevent recurrence.

Causes of Elbow Tendonitis

Tendonitis in the elbow typically arises from repetitive motions that strain the tendons. Activities such as painting, typing, gardening, or playing musical instruments can contribute to this condition. Repetitive stress causes small tears in the tendon, leading to pain and inflammation.

Primary types of elbow tendonitis:

• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow, commonly seen in individuals who perform repetitive wrist extension movements.
• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow): Affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow, often caused by repetitive wrist flexion motions.

These conditions can develop gradually and worsen if left untreated.

Tendonitis Symptoms to Watch For

Common symptoms of elbow tendonitis include:

• Pain and tenderness on the outside or inside of the elbow
• Weakness in the forearm
• Pain that worsens with wrist and hand movements
• Difficulty performing tasks that involve gripping, lifting, or twisting motions

If you experience these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation to determine the appropriate course of action.

Common Treatment Options for Tendonitis

Addressing elbow tendonitis involves a combination of self-care and professional interventions:

Conservative Treatments

• Rest and Activity Modification: Allowing the affected tendon to heal by avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain.
• Physical Therapy: Engaging in specific exercises to strengthen and stretch the forearm muscles can be beneficial. Eccentric muscle strengthening, where the muscle lengthens under tension, has shown positive outcomes.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Bracing or Taping: Using a forearm brace or kinesiology tape can help alleviate strain on the affected tendons.

Advanced Therapies

Our specialists at Calibration Physical Therapy provide personalized care plans that incorporate these advanced therapies to effectively address your elbow tendonitis. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal health through precision physical therapy.

Prevention Strategies for Elbow Pain

Preventing elbow tendonitis involves adopting healthy habits:

• Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure your workspace is set up to minimize strain on your forearm and wrist. Proper posture and wrist positioning can significantly reduce stress on the tendons.
• Strengthening Exercises: Regularly perform forearm-strengthening exercises to enhance their resilience to stress. Incorporate resistance training and grip-strengthening routines.
• Proper Technique: Whether in sports or daily activities, using the correct technique can significantly reduce the risk of tendon strain.
• Stretching and Warm-ups: Before engaging in repetitive tasks or sports, warming up and stretching the muscles can help prevent injury.

By implementing these strategies, you can maintain elbow health and prevent tendonitis recurrence.

When to Start Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain

If your elbow pain persists despite rest and conservative treatments, it’s time to consult a professional. Our physical therapists will help address the root cause of your condition and provide tailored exercises and interventions to promote healing.

We’re here to help. If you’re struggling with elbow pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact us at 913-914-7174 or book an appointment online. 

Our physical therapy clinic in Overland Park is dedicated to providing you with the tools to achieve optimal health through precision physical therapy.