You don’t have to play tennis to end up with a tennis elbow. In fact, a study found that people engaged in manual labor jobs are 3 times more likely to have it. New cases were strongly linked to poor posture, the use of heavy hand-held tools, and high physical strain.
The same study also showed that jobs requiring precise hand work, like dentistry, could increase the risk by up to 5 times. And for many people, especially those who work with their arms all day, these stressors build up over time.
If you’re dealing with this kind of arm pain, know that there are proven, holistic ways to treat it. For patients in Denver CO, we focus on restoring your elbow’s proper function, improving and giving your elbow the support it needs to heal the right way.
What Is a Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is caused by irritation or small tears in the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the outer part of your elbow. It often results from repeated use of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle, it’s the one that helps extend your wrist and grip objects.
While it can affect anyone, tennis elbow is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60, especially those who perform repetitive tasks with their hands and arms.
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow usually develops from repetitive stress placed on the tendons that control wrist and finger movement.
- Playing racquet sports, especially with poor technique during backhand strokes
- Using hand tools frequently, like hammers, screwdrivers, or paint rollers
- Operating power tools that cause vibration or require sustained hand pressure
- Extended time on a keyboard or mouse, particularly without proper wrist support
- Lifting heavy objects without engaging the shoulder or core properly
Postural issues or spinal misalignment, which affect arm mechanics and increase elbow stress
How Your Wheat Ridge Chiropractor Treats Tennis Elbow
Chiropractic Adjustments
Postural misalignment can contribute to repetitive stress at the elbow. We use precise adjustments to correct structural imbalances at either your neck or joints to improve movement patterns, and reduce compensatory strain.
Shockwave Therapy
The Disc Chiropractic pioneered the use in Wheat Ridge CO the Intelect RPW 2 an advanced acoustic wave therapy that stimulates cellular repair and improves blood circulation by targeting calcified trigger points and scar tissue around your forearms.
Soft Tissue Therapy
We use the Rapid Release Pro 3 and a combination of chiropractic adjustments to use high-frequency vibrations to relax tight forearm muscles and help calm local inflammation in the tendons around the elbow.
Therapeutic Exercise and Posture Correction
Once pain and inflammation are under control, we introduce specific rehab exercises to rebuild strength and prevent flare-ups. These may include exercises such as forearm stretches and grip retraining. These act as ongoing support to keep your elbow healthy long after treatment ends.
FAQs About Tennis Elbow
Is Tennis Elbow Only Caused by Playing Tennis?
No. It commonly affects non-athletes who perform repetitive arm motions, such as typing, lifting, or using tools.
Can a Chiropractor Help With a Tennis Elbow?
Yes. Chiropractic care addresses both local tendon strain and broader postural imbalances that may be driving it.
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
Mild cases may improve within a few weeks. More chronic conditions can take up to a year to be fully resolved with consistent, structured care.
What is tennis elbow and why does it happen?
Tennis elbow, known medically as lateral epicondylitis, is an injury involving inflammation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. It often develops from repetitive motions of the wrist and forearm, particularly those involving gripping, lifting, or rotating.
What symptoms are typical of tennis elbow?
The most common symptom is a burning or aching pain on the outer part of the elbow that may radiate into the forearm. Some patients notice decreased strength or stiffness when using the affected arm. The pain may start gradually and worsen over time with continued activity.
Take the First Step Toward Tennis Elbow Pain Relief
If you’re ready for real answers, not temporary relief for your Tennis Elbow, your Denver Chiropractor, Dr. Al Simeon, will be honored to help you take the next step.
Book your $97 First Visit today
Includes a full consultation, movement assessment, and personalized care recommendations.
Call: 720-573-4910