Serving Relief: How Chiropractors Help Heal Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common overuse injuries among racquet sport players—but it doesn’t stop there. You don’t have to be a tennis pro to suffer from this painful condition. Anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm—like pickleball players, office workers, or gardeners—can develop it. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers effective, non-invasive treatment to relieve pain and restore strength.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive stress and micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral (outer) part of the elbow. These tendons control wrist and finger movement, especially the motion used to grip and swing. Over time, strain and inflammation in this area lead to:

• Pain on the outside of the elbow

• Weak grip strength

• Pain that worsens with lifting, gripping, or twisting

• Stiffness in the forearm

How Chiropractors Treat Tennis Elbow

Chiropractors treat the body as a whole—focusing on alignment, muscle balance, and nervous system function. Here’s how they can help relieve tennis elbow symptoms and speed up your recovery:

1. Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment

A chiropractor will assess not only your elbow, but also your shoulder, wrist, spine, and posture. Tennis elbow often results from or contributes to other biomechanical imbalances. Understanding the bigger picture helps prevent recurrence.

2. Joint and Soft Tissue Adjustments

Gentle adjustments to the elbow, wrist, and shoulder can improve joint mobility and relieve tension. Chiropractors may also use manual therapies like Myofascial Release Technique (MRT) or instrument assisted release techniques to reduce scar tissue, promote circulation, and restore tendon health.

3. Therapeutic Modalities

Chiropractors may use techniques such as ultrasound, cold laser therapy, or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in the damaged tendons.

4. Rehabilitation Exercises

Strengthening and stretching exercises are essential for long-term recovery. Chiropractors will guide you through a personalized program to:

• Improve grip strength

• Reduce strain on the elbow

• Support wrist and shoulder function

• Correct poor movement habits

5. Posture and Ergonomic Advice

If your tennis elbow is caused or worsened by posture or poor ergonomics—whether on the court or at your desk—your chiropractor can help you make the necessary adjustments to protect your joints.

You Don’t Have to Live With Elbow Pain

Tennis elbow can be frustrating and persistent, but with the right care, most people experience a full recovery. Chiropractic treatment focuses not just on short-term relief, but long-term function and prevention. Whether you’re playing tennis, working on your computer, or doing everyday tasks, chiropractors can help you move pain-free again.