Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons of the elbow, typically from overuse or repetitive motion. Whether you’re an athlete, a manual laborer, or someone who enjoys recreational activities, tennis elbow can become a frustrating and limiting condition. The pain can affect your ability to perform basic tasks, from lifting objects to even shaking hands.
For individuals suffering from tennis elbow, shockwave therapy has emerged as a promising, non-invasive treatment option. In this blog, we’ll explore how shockwave therapy for tendonitis can provide relief, how it works, and why it might be the right choice for addressing tennis elbow pain in Placentia, CA.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that typically affects the tendons in the forearm, specifically the extensor tendons of the elbow. It’s most commonly caused by repetitive motions like gripping, lifting, or swinging — actions that put constant stress on the elbow.
The primary symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow, which may extend down the forearm. Other symptoms include:
- Weakness in the arm or grip
- Pain when bending or extending the arm
- Tenderness or swelling around the elbow
Tennis elbow can be incredibly painful and affect daily life. While rest and traditional therapies can provide some relief, many patients turn to shockwave therapy as a more targeted, non-invasive treatment option.
How Shockwave Therapy Works for Tendonitis
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), involves the application of high-energy sound waves to the affected area. These sound waves are transmitted to the tendon where they work by:
- Stimulating circulation: The shockwaves help promote blood flow to the injured area, bringing essential nutrients and oxygen that facilitate healing.
- Breaking down scar tissue: Shockwaves can break down scar tissue and adhesions in the tendon, which can improve the flexibility and function of the affected tissue.
- Encouraging collagen production: By stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, shockwave therapy promotes the production of collagen, which is essential for tendon repair.
Shockwave therapy for tendonitis is particularly effective for chronic conditions like tennis elbow. It targets the damaged tissue directly, providing relief without the need for surgery or medications.
Why is Shockwave Therapy Effective for Tennis Elbow?
1. Non-Invasive Treatment Option
One of the primary advantages of shockwave therapy is that it is a non-invasive treatment option. Unlike surgery, which requires incisions and a significant recovery period, shockwave therapy is a quick, outpatient procedure. There are no needles, cuts, or anesthesia involved.
During a session, the patient typically lies down while the shockwave device is applied to the elbow. The therapy itself lasts about 10-15 minutes, and most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the treatment. This makes shockwave therapy an excellent option for individuals seeking relief without the risks or downtime associated with surgical interventions.
2. Targets the Root Cause of the Pain
While medications and rest may alleviate some symptoms of tennis elbow, they don’t necessarily address the underlying problem. Shockwave therapy works by directly targeting the tendons and tissues involved in the injury. The sound waves penetrate deep into the tissue, helping to break down scar tissue and promote healing at the site of the injury.
By stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, shockwave therapy addresses the root cause of tennis elbow pain—tendon damage—and encourages faster, more effective recovery.
3. Promotes Long-Term Relief
Unlike temporary pain relievers or steroid injections, which may only provide short-term relief, shockwave therapy is designed to provide lasting results. By improving circulation, breaking down scar tissue, and promoting tissue regeneration, shockwave therapy can help reduce inflammation and prevent future flare-ups of tennis elbow pain.
Many patients report long-term relief after completing a series of shockwave therapy treatments. For individuals with chronic tennis elbow, this therapy can be a game-changer, reducing the need for ongoing medication or surgical options.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy Treatment
1. Initial Consultation
Before starting shockwave therapy, a reliable chiropractor will assess your condition. During the consultation, the chiropractor will evaluate the severity of your tennis elbow, review your medical history, and determine if shockwave therapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.
If shockwave therapy is recommended, the chiropractor will outline a personalized treatment plan that may include multiple sessions over the course of several weeks.
2. The Treatment Process
During the session, you will lie down, and the shockwave device will be positioned over the affected area of your elbow. The chiropractor will adjust the intensity of the sound waves based on your comfort level and the severity of your condition.
While the treatment is typically well-tolerated, some patients may experience mild discomfort during the application of the shockwaves. This is usually brief and fades after the session.
3. Post-Treatment Care
After the session, you can typically resume your regular activities. However, your chiropractor may recommend avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a short period after treatment to allow the healing process to continue.
It’s common to require multiple sessions of shockwave therapy for optimal results. Most patients undergo 3-5 sessions spaced about a week apart, depending on the severity of their condition.
When Should You Consider Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow?
If you’re struggling with tennis elbow and traditional treatments like rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications have not provided sufficient relief, shockwave therapy may be an effective option. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic tendonitis or those looking to avoid more invasive treatments like injections or surgery.
To determine if shockwave therapy is the right choice for your tennis elbow, consult with a reliable chiropractor. They can assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan that supports your recovery.
Learn more about how shockwave therapy can help alleviate tennis elbow pain by visiting Momentum Health and Wellness.
