Tennis Elbow Treatment Ottawa: What Tennis Elbow Is and How You Get It

Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain on the outside of the elbow and forearm. Although it is often associated with racquet sports, most people who seek tennis elbow treatment in Ottawa develop the condition through everyday activities rather than sports. Repetitive use of the arm, wrist, and hand is the most common cause.

Understanding what tennis elbow is and how it develops can help you recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate care before the condition becomes long-term.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically referred to as lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become irritated or damaged. These tendons are responsible for stabilising the wrist and allowing gripping and lifting movements.

Repeated stress on these tendons can lead to small tears and inflammation, resulting in pain, tenderness, and weakness. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if the underlying cause is not addressed.

Common symptoms of tennis elbow include:

• Pain or tenderness on the outer part of the elbow

• Weak grip strength

• Pain when lifting, twisting, or gripping objects

• Discomfort that may extend into the forearm

Many people delay tennis elbow treatment in Ottawa because symptoms start mildly, but early care often leads to better outcomes.

How Do You Get Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is typically caused by repetitive strain rather than a single injury. Any activity that involves repeated gripping, wrist extension, or forearm rotation can place stress on the elbow tendons.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive work tasks such as typing, mouse use, or tool handling

• Manual labour involving lifting, gripping, or repetitive arm movements

• Sports such as tennis, golf, pickleball, or squash

• Poor technique or improperly fitted equipment

• Sudden increases in activity without adequate rest or conditioning

Posture and movement mechanics also contribute. Reduced mobility in the shoulder, neck, or wrist can increase the load placed on the elbow, making tennis elbow more likely to develop.

Why Tennis Elbow Can Become Chronic

Many people attempt to push through the pain or rely on rest alone, which may not address contributing factors such as joint stiffness or muscle imbalance.

Over time, ongoing stress can lead to degenerative changes in the tendon, making recovery more difficult and prolonged.

Tennis Elbow Treatment Ottawa: Can Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractic care may be a beneficial option for tennis elbow treatment in Ottawa by addressing joint function, muscle balance, and movement patterns that contribute to elbow strain. Rather than focusing solely on the elbow, chiropractors assess the entire upper extremity, including the wrist, shoulder, and spine.

Chiropractic care may include:

• Gentle joint adjustments to improve mobility

• Soft tissue therapy to reduce tension in the forearm muscles

• Exercise recommendations to support strength and flexibility

• Guidance on posture, ergonomics, and activity modification

This approach aims to reduce stress on the elbow, support healing, and help prevent future flare-ups.