Most elbow injuries are due to overuse or repetitive strain. In "tennis elbow" (not always caused by playing tennis) there is an overuse/overstrain of the muscles and ligaments that attach at the lateral part (outside) of the elbow. In "golfers' elbow" (not always caused by playing golf), the pain is in the muscles and ligaments on the medial part (inside) of the elbow.
A thorough examination including orthopedic testing will help to determine your exact diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. Once a diagnosis has been reached, reducing the level of pain and inflammation around the elbow is of initial concern. Care consisting of ice, joint manipulation, physiotherapy (electrical stimulation/ultrasound), massage, and acupuncture may be used to accomplish this goal. therapeutic exercises will be also be given to rehabilitate the injured, weakened tissues and overly tight muscles. Massage therapy & myofascial release techniques may also be used in conjunction with these other therapies in order to get the best results. Often a specialized brace will be given to prevent recurrent injury to the elbow during the healing process. Not always thought of as a "chiropractic" condition by patients, chiropractic's conservative approach to elbow pain is often very effective, avoiding more invasive, risky treatment options. For example, repetitive cortisone injection should be avoided as it has been well documented to cause tendon disruption, and places you at risk of further injury for 2 to 6 weeks following injection. However, if after examination we conclude that your case cannot be helped with conservative care, a prompt referral will be made.
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS BLOG: THE IMPORTANCE OF ERGONOMICS & MICRO-BREAKS : Over time, the human body has adapted very well to the task of hunting for and gathering food. It performs and feels its best when it is in motion during the day, and resting at night. Sitting all day, on the other hand, puts an enormous strain on the sspine and its supporting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and fascia. If you are sitting at a desk and/or computer for more than 1 hour on a regular basis, then you are what we call an “industrial athlete”. For you, proper ergonomics and micro-breaks (discussed in a separate blog) are essential to prevent neck pain, back pain, and headaches, as well as to allow your body to get the best results from your chiropractic care. Proper ergonomics involves having your computer monitor positioned directly in front of you (not off to one side), at eye-level. Your feet should be in full contact with the floor, with your hips and knees bent at approximately a 90 degree angle. It is crucial that your elbows are in at your sides at all times (even when using your keyboard and mouse), no more than 2-3 inches away from your sides or reaching in front of your shoulders. Ideally, your elbows and wrists are resting on an arm rest/wrist rest, either attached to your chair, or your desk. In order for the above requirements to be met, a drop-down keyboard tray and fully adjustable ergonomic chair are usually necessary. Drs. Ezgur and DiDomenico are highly skilled in advising you how to modify your worksite to be ergonomically correct for you. They may also recommend that you request an ergonomic consultation to be performed for you by your employer. Many people don’t realize that most companies are required by law to comply with your request. Read More |