Clevedon Osteopathic Practice : Understanding Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow: Causes, Physiology, and How Osteopathy and Shockwave Therapy Can Help

Elbow pain can be frustrating and limiting, especially when it interferes with daily activities. The most common conditions affecting the elbow are Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow—, these conditions can affect anyone, not just athletes. If you’re experiencing persistent elbow discomfort, understanding these conditions and the treatment options available—including osteopathic care and shockwave therapy—can help you recover faster and return to pain-free living.

What Are Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow?

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow is a condition involving inflammation or micro-tears of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the outer part of the elbow). It is often caused by repetitive motions involving gripping and wrist extension, such as typing, painting, or using tools.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow affects the medial epicondyle (the inner part of the elbow). It’s caused by overuse of the wrist flexor muscles and tendons—those responsible for bending the wrist and gripping. It’s commonly seen in golfers, but also affects people who frequently lift, carry, or perform repetitive wrist movements.

 

The Physiology Behind the Pain

Both conditions involve tendinopathy, a disorder of the tendons typically characterised by:

• Microtrauma from repetitive strain
• Degeneration of collagen fibres in the tendon
• Inflammation (more prominent in early stages)
• Pain and reduced grip strength

Unlike acute injuries, these are often chronic overuse conditions, meaning they develop gradually over time. The pain is typically localised, worsens with activity, and may radiate down the forearm.

 

How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help

Osteopaths take a holistic approach, assessing the entire musculoskeletal system rather than just the site of pain. Treatment for tennis or golfer’s elbow may include:

• Soft tissue manipulation: To release muscle tension in the forearm and surrounding areas.
• Joint mobilisation: Especially of the elbow, wrist, shoulder, and upper spine to improve mechanics and reduce strain.
• Postural correction: Poor posture and biomechanics can contribute to elbow strain—osteopaths help identify and correct these issues.
• Rehabilitation exercises: Tailored stretches and strengthening routines to prevent recurrence.

Osteopathy not only addresses the symptoms but also targets the underlying mechanical causes, supporting long-term recovery and prevention.

 

Shockwave Therapy: A Modern Solution for Chronic Elbow Pain

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. It is especially effective in chronic tendinopathies where healing has stalled.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

• Promotes neovascularisation (formation of new blood vessels)
• Stimulates collagen production
• Breaks down calcific deposits (if present)
• Reduces pain by decreasing substance P (a pain-mediating chemical)

Typically, a course of 3 to 6 weekly sessions is recommended, with each session lasting about 15–20 minutes.

Benefits for Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow

• Fast-tracks the healing process
• Reduces dependence on painkillers
• Minimal side effects and downtime
• Works well in conjunction with osteopathic care and exercise therapy

 

Why Combine Osteopathy and Shockwave Therapy?

Together, these therapies address both the symptoms and root causes of tennis and golfer’s elbow. While osteopathy improves joint and muscle function, shockwave therapy accelerates tendon healing at a cellular level. The combination offers a comprehensive, evidence-based treatment plan that’s both natural and highly effective.

 

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing:

• Persistent elbow pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Pain that worsens with gripping, lifting, or wrist movement
• Reduced arm strength or mobility

… it’s worth consulting a qualified osteopath or shockwave therapy practitioner.

 

Conclusion

Tennis and golfer’s elbow are more than just sports injuries—they’re common, treatable conditions that can significantly impact quality of life if left unaddressed. Fortunately, with expert osteopathic treatment and cutting-edge shockwave therapy, long-term relief is well within reach.

If you’re ready to tackle your elbow pain, get in touch with our clinic today. Your recovery could be just a few sessions away.