Lateral epicondylitis, more commonly known as tennis elbow, is a condition that can cause sharp pain on the outer part of the elbow, often making even the simplest of tasks, like shaking hands or opening a jar, feel excruciating. Despite the name, tennis elbow doesn’t just affect tennis players. It can strike anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, whether through sports, manual labor, or even excessive computer work. Fortunately, advancements in medical treatments, like shockwave therapy, offer promising solutions for this debilitating lateral epicondylitis.
What is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Lateral epicondylitis occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive motion or overuse. This results in microtears in the tendon, leading to pain, tenderness, and limited movement. The condition is often characterized by a dull ache or sharp pain when using the forearm muscles, especially when lifting or gripping objects. It affects a wide range of people, from athletes to office workers, and can severely impact daily activities if left untreated.
Traditional Treatment Options for Lateral Epicondylitis
Most people first turn to traditional treatments when they’re diagnosed with tennis elbow. Resting the affected arm, applying ice packs, and taking anti-inflammatory medications can help manage pain in the short term. Physical therapy is another common approach, aiming to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the elbow. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or even surgery might be considered.
While these methods can provide temporary relief, they don’t always address the root cause of the injury. Additionally, they often involve long recovery times, and the results are not always guaranteed. This is where shockwave therapy enters the picture.
What is Shockwave Therapy for Lateral Epicondylitis?
Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. For tennis elbow, shockwave therapy targets the affected tendons, applying high-energy sound waves that penetrate deep into the tissue to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and stimulate collagen production.
The process involves the application of a handheld device to the skin over the elbow, where it releases pulses of sound waves. This triggers a healing response in the tendons, promoting faster recovery. The therapy is typically performed in short sessions, lasting about 15–20 minutes, with patients often experiencing noticeable improvements after just a few sessions.
What Does the Research Say?
Research supports shockwave therapy as an effective treatment for lateral epicondylitis. Studies have shown that shockwave therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with tennis elbow. According to a study published on PubMed, shockwave therapy promotes tissue healing, increases blood flow, and reduces the inflammation that causes pain and stiffness. Clinical trials have demonstrated that shockwave therapy is especially effective when traditional treatments fail, offering patients a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing their condition.
One review of multiple studies found that over 70% of patients experienced substantial relief from pain and improved elbow function after undergoing shockwave therapy. The treatment is considered both safe and effective, with minimal risks and a low chance of side effects.
How Long Will the Effect Last?
The effects of shockwave therapy can vary from patient to patient. However, many experience lasting relief after just a few sessions. Pain relief can last for months or even years, depending on the condition’s severity and post-treatment care. Patients often notice improved mobility and a lower risk of re-injury. Multiple sessions may be needed for the best results, but the treatment is well-tolerated. There’s no downtime or recovery period. For those with tennis elbow, shockwave therapy offers a quick, non-invasive solution to get back to daily activities faster than traditional methods.
Conclusion
Shockwave therapy is a game-changing option for lateral epicondylitis. It’s proven to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve function. This makes it an excellent alternative to surgery or steroid injections. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just dealing with everyday tasks, shockwave therapy can help. It can restore your strength and mobility, giving you the upper hand against tennis elbow.