Chiropractic for Elbow Pain and Elbow Injuries
Elbow Pain and Elbow Injuries: Diagnosis and Treatment
Here, at the Healing Hands Chiropractic clinic, we understand that elbow pain can be a challenging and uncomfortable condition to deal with. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort due to overuse, trauma, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis, our dedicated team is here to help you find relief and regain optimal elbow health. In this article, we’ll explore the various aspects of elbow-related pain, from its common causes and symptoms to the diagnostic tools, treatment options, and preventive measures available.
Understanding Elbow Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms
Overview of the Elbow Joint
The elbow joint is a remarkable but complex structure that allows for a wide range of arm movements. It’s composed of three main bones: the humerus, radius, and ulna. Several tendons, ligaments, and muscles surround the joint, making it susceptible to various issues when injured or out of balance.
Common Causes of Elbow-Related Pain
Elbow-related pain can arise from a multitude of factors, including overuse, repetitive strain, trauma, and medical conditions such as arthritis. Overuse injuries, such as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow , are often associated with repetitive motions.
Trauma, such as fractures or dislocations, can result from accidents and may result in tissue damage. Arthritis, whether osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the elbow joint, causing persistent discomfort.
Typical Symptoms Associated with Elbow Pain
Elbow-related pain can manifest in several ways, including swelling, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Diagnosing elbow-related Related Pain: Evaluation and Diagnostic Tools
Importance of Seeking Professional Evaluation for Accurate Diagnosis
When experiencing elbow-related pain, seeking professional evaluation is essential. At Healing Hands Chiropractic, our experienced practitioners utilize a thorough assessment process to identify the root cause of your discomfort accurately to establish if your particular elbow-related pain is trauma-related elbow-based pain, a tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow or something else.
Chiropractors are trained to perform specific adjustments to address different types of elbow issues. Firstly, they have to establish a clear root-cause diagnosis. In the same way that a neck pain can be related to shoulder pain and even referred pain from other non-related areas, the elbow has to be carefully examined so that the root cause and related imbalances are clearly understood in relation to specific elbow-related pains and symptoms.
Physical Examination Techniques Used to Assess the Elbow
During a physical examination, our chiropractors carefully assess your elbow’s condition, checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. These evaluations help pinpoint specific issues affecting your joint.
Diagnostic Imaging Methods
In some cases, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays (if clinically required) or MRI scans may be recommended to provide a clearer picture of the underlying condition.
Other Tests
Depending on the suspected issue, additional tests like nerve conduction studies may be conducted to identify specific conditions or injuries affecting the elbow.
Treating Elbow Related Pain: Conservative Approaches and Interventional Techniques
Initial Conservative Treatments
For mild to moderate elbow-related pain, conservative approaches like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can provide relief.
Non-Surgical Interventions
Physical therapy exercises, soft tissue therapy, and stretches can improve flexibility and strength. We may also recommend braces or splints to support the affected area during the healing process.
Corticosteroid Intra-articular or Intra-Muscular Steroid Injections
In cases of severe pain or inflammation, corticosteroid shots may be administered for temporary relief. An intra-articular injection means injected directly into the articulation (a specific joint), while an intra-muscular injection targets the muscles.
Surgical Options
When conservative treatments aren’t effective, surgical options may be explored for severe cases, and should be considered a last resort.
Specific Conditions and Injuries Affecting the Elbow Joint
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, often occurs due to repetitive gripping and wrist extension activities.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Medial side epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is caused by repetitive gripping and wrist flexion activities.
Olecranon Bursitis
Olecranon bursitis can lead to painful swelling at the tip of the elbow. Find out more about its causes and treatment options at Healing Hands Chiropractic.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome involves the compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Book an initial assessment to learn about its causes and how Healing Hands Chiropractic can help alleviate your symptoms.
Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Radial tunnel syndrome can cause discomfort due to compression of the radial nerve. Discover how Healing Hands Chiropractic can assist in your recovery and tailored healing programs.
Elbow Tendinitis
Elbow tendinitis, often stemming from overuse, can be debilitating. Healing Hands Chiropractic offers effective treatments for this condition.
Fractures and Dislocations
Fractures and dislocations of the elbow joint can result from traumatic injuries. Book an initial assessment to get a clear diagnosis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can affect the elbow joint over time, causing spurs to grow within the elbow joint, causing friction and inflammation. Find out how Healing Hands Chiropractic can help manage this condition.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that affects the elbow and other joints. Learn about its causes and available treatments at Healing Hands Chiropractic.
Ligament Sprains and Tears
Ligament sprains and tears in the elbow can be painful. Healing Hands Chiropractic’s approach to managing these injuries offers safe and effective solutions.
Nerve Entrapment
Nerve entrapment around the elbow can lead to pain and discomfort. Sometimes referred pain may occur where a nerve is trapped elsewhere yet causes pain around the elbow area. Explore how Healing Hands Chiropractic can accurately diagnose the root cause and help you find targeted relief.
Overuse or Repetitive Strain Injuries
Overuse or repetitive strain injuries can often affect the elbow joint. Learn about Healing Hands Chiropractic’s treatment strategies, such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue techniques, corrective stretches and exercises specifically for these conditions.
Radial Head Subluxation (Nursemaid’s Elbow)
Radial head subluxation, commonly known as nursemaid’s elbow, can affect children. At Healing Hands Chiropractic our practitioners are trained to address this issue.
Gout
Gout can cause joint pain, including the elbow. Healing Hands Chiropractors provide health guidelines and lifestyle modifications for managing this condition.
Infections
Infections can lead to elbow joint inflammation. At Healing Hands Chiropractic, we provide conservative healthcare treatment options and may refer you to your GP for managing and alleviating infections.
Rehabilitation and Recovery for Elbow Injuries
Importance of Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation plays a pivotal role in restoring full functionality to the affected elbow joint. Healing Hands Chiropractic offers tailored rehabilitation programs designed to meet your specific needs for a swift recovery.
Specific Rehabilitation Exercises
Our rehabilitation exercises are designed to improve range of motion, strength, and stability, ensuring a successful recovery.
Progressive Treatment Plans
At Healing Hands Chiropractic, we create progressive treatment plans that evolve with your healing process, ensuring optimal recovery.
Preventing Elbow Injuries: Tips for Maintaining Elbow Health
Promoting Proper Ergonomics
Learn how to maintain proper ergonomics during activities that involve repetitive arm motions to reduce the risk of elbow injuries.
Utilizing Protective Equipment
Find out how using protective equipment in sports and physical activities can help prevent elbow injuries.
Incorporating Regular Strength Training
Discover the importance of regular strength training exercises to support the muscles around the elbow joint, helping to improve stability and reduce the risk of injury.
Practicing Good Warm-Up and Stretching Routines
Before engaging in physical activities that stress the elbows, it’s essential to practice good warm-up and stretching routines. These routines prepare the muscles and tendons for activity, increasing flexibility and reducing the chance of strains or tears.
By following these preventive measures and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of elbow injuries and maintain overall elbow health.
Elbow & Chiropractic Related FAQs
What’s better, a tennis elbow chiropractor or physiotherapy?
Both chiropractic care and physiotherapy can be effective in treating elbow pain, but they offer different approaches. Chiropractors focus on spinal adjustments and joint manipulation to alleviate pain and improve function. Healing Hands Chiropractic specializes in providing chiropractic care tailored to your elbow condition, ensuring personalized treatment for optimal results.
Is there a chiropractic elbow adjustment?
Yes, chiropractors can perform specific elbow adjustments to address joint dysfunction, relieve pain, and enhance mobility. Healing Hands Chiropractic has a team of skilled chiropractors who can provide precise elbow adjustments as part of their comprehensive treatment approach.
Why am I feeling elbow pain after chiropractic adjustments?
It’s not uncommon to experience mild discomfort after a chiropractic adjustment, which typically subsides within a day or two. This is often a sign that your body is responding to the treatment. If the pain persists or worsens, apply ice or a cold compress, you may also contact Healing Hands Chiropractic for further guidance and follow-up care.
Where can I find a ‘chiropractor tennis elbow near me’?
If you’re looking for a chiropractor experienced in treating epicondylitis (as it’s clinically called) in your area, Healing Hands Chiropractic is here to help. We have a conveniently located clinic in Richmond, Southwest London, and our chiropractors are trained in accurately diagnosing and treating a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including epicondylitis or tennis-elbow.
Can a Chiropractor perform a tennis elbow chiropractic adjustment?
Yes, chiropractors can perform adjustments to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with epicondylitis. Healing Hands Chiropractic offers targeted chiropractic care, including adjustments, to address epicondylitis and promote healing of the elbow as well as other joints.
Can a chiropractor help with tendonitis?
Yes, chiropractors can assist in the management of tendonitis. Healing Hands Chiropractic offers a holistic approach that may include adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and exercises to address tendonitis, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
At Healing Hands Chiropractic, our dedicated team of chiropractors is committed to providing personalized and effective care for elbow-related pain and associated conditions. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a pain-free and functional lifestyle. Details shown below.
Chiropractic for elbow pain: Start your Healing Journey at Healing Hands Chiropractic
At Healing Hands Chiropractic, we deliver measurable results through targeted chiropractic treatment. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you in your journey to understand, treat, and prevent elbow-related pain and other injuries. We believe that a comprehensive approach to elbow health, from accurate diagnosis to tailored treatment and preventive strategies, is essential in helping you achieve optimal well-being.
📞 24/7 Helpline: 020 8948 9102
🔗 24/7 Booking: Online Booking
🏢 In-Person Visits: 26 Richmond Hill, Richmond, TW10 6QX, Southwest London – UK
Whether you’re seeking a ‘chiropractor near me’ or specific relief from existing elbow-based pain or looking to maintain a healthy elbow joint for the long term, Healing Hands Chiropractic is your trusted partner in achieving your goals. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free and healthy elbow joint.