Gabriela Wieczorek, RMT - Registered Massage Therapist
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are conditions caused by repetitive strain and overuse of the tendons in your forearm. The main difference lies in where the pain occurs: tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow impacts the tendons on the inner side. These injuries aren’t just for athletes—any activity involving repetitive wrist or arm movements, like typing, painting, or lifting, can lead to them. The symptoms typically include pain, tenderness, and sometimes weakness in the affected arm, which can make simple tasks like gripping objects or opening a door difficult.
How Massage Therapy Can Help
Massage therapy is a fantastic, non-invasive option for relieving tennis and golfer’s elbow. Techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release work by improving blood flow to the affected area and reducing muscle tension. This not only helps to alleviate pain but also promotes faster healing of the damaged tendons. Research has shown that soft tissue manipulation enhances circulation, which delivers vital nutrients to the tissues, aiding recovery. Additionally, massage can improve mobility and reduce stiffness, making it easier to regain full function of the arm. By addressing both the pain and the underlying muscular tension, massage therapy can be a key part of managing these conditions.
Making Massage Part of Your Recovery
While massage therapy provides significant relief, it’s most effective when paired with other treatments. Stretching, strengthening exercises, and proper rest are essential for long-term recovery. Making small changes, like improving your posture or adjusting how you perform repetitive tasks, can also help prevent future flare-ups. Ice, heat, and anti-inflammatory medications might be used to manage acute pain, but addressing the root cause with massage and proper ergonomics is crucial. Working with a registered massage therapist who understands repetitive strain injuries ensures that your treatment is customized to your specific needs. Over time, regular massage sessions can not only alleviate symptoms but also keep your tendons healthy and strong, helping you stay pain-free.
References
1. Galloway, M. T., & Jokl, P. (2000). “The prevention and treatment of overuse tendon injuries.” Sports Medicine, 29(4), 245-259.2. Schleip, R., & Jäger, H. (2012). “Fascial treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain: A review.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 16(4), 480-491.3. Cook, J. L., & Purdam, C. R. (2009). “Is tendon pathology a continuum? A pathology model to explain the clinical presentation of load-induced tendinopathy.” British Journal of Sports Medicine, 43(6), 409-416
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