Maintaining peak performance and staying injury-free are top priorities for athletes and sports enthusiasts in Princeton, NJ. However, injuries are an inherent risk in sports, and one common ailment that can affect athletes, especially those who play racquet sports, is tennis elbow. If you are experiencing the pain and limitations of tennis elbow, Twin Boro Physical Therapy – Skillman/Princeton is your go-to destination for expert sports medicine care and rehabilitation.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is characterized by pain and inflammation outside the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow can affect anyone who engages in repetitive arm motions, not just tennis players. It commonly occurs in athletes who participate in racquet sports, such as tennis and pickleball, and in individuals whose jobs involve repetitive wrist and arm movements, such as painters and carpenters.
The primary cause of tennis elbow is overuse of the forearm muscles that extend the wrist and fingers. This repetitive stress leads to micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outer part of the elbow. Over time, these micro-tears can cause pain, inflammation, and weakness in the forearm and elbow.
Expert Sports Medicine Care for Tennis Elbow
When you visit our Skillman/Princeton clinic for tennis elbow, your physical therapist will conduct a thorough assessment to accurately diagnose the condition’s extent and impact on your athletic performance or daily activities. We take the time to understand your sports routines, lifestyle, and any contributing factors that may aggravate your condition. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Your therapist will implement evidence-based treatment strategies to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Treatment for tennis elbow may include:
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue and joint mobilization, can reduce muscle tension and promote circulation to the affected area.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Customized exercises are designed to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility, supporting healing and preventing future injuries.
- Biomechanical Analysis: Our sports medicine specialists will analyze your sports techniques and body mechanics to identify any improper movements contributing to your tennis elbow.
- Brace or Strap Support: A brace or strap may sometimes be recommended to relieve pressure on the injured tendons during activities.
- Preventative Care: Our sports medicine team will work with you on injury prevention strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence. This may include proper warm-up exercises, sport-specific conditioning, and ergonomic modifications in your sports gear and techniques.
Collaborative Approach for Optimal Recovery
At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, we believe in a collaborative approach to sports medicine care. We work closely with your sports coaches, trainers, and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless communication and integrated care. We aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools to participate in your recovery journey and prevent future injuries.
Let’s Work Together!
Tennis elbow doesn’t have to keep you off the court or hinder your daily activities. Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Princeton, NJ, is here to support your recovery and help you regain your athletic performance and enjoyment. You can return to your favorite sports and activities with renewed strength and confidence with specialized sports medicine care. Start your recovery journey today by calling 609.964.4442 or visiting Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Skillman/Princeton.
