How Dry Needling Can Help with Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain around the outside of the elbow. It's often the result of overuse or repetitive motion of the forearm muscles and tendons, which can lead to inflammation and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Dry needling can be an effective treatment option for those struggling with tennis elbow, particularly when traditional treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Symptoms of tennis elbow can range from mild discomfort while performing certain activities, to severe pain even at rest. Common signs include pain and tenderness on the outside of your elbow, a weak grip strength, and difficulty in performing tasks that involve bending the arm, like lifting a cup or shaking someone's hand. The severity of symptoms can often be influenced by the extent of tendon damage and the duration of the condition.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a treatment technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points in the muscles, known as trigger points. The aim is to release tension, reduce pain, and improve range of motion. The term "dry" refers to the fact that the needles do not inject any substance into the body. The technique is often used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including tennis elbow.

The theory behind dry needling is based on the concept of trigger points. These are knots or tight bands of muscle fibers that can be felt under the skin and often cause localized or referred pain. Dry needling is thought to disrupt these trigger points, thereby reducing pain and improving function. 

Though dry needling and acupuncture may seem similar due to the use of needles, they are distinctly different practices. Dry needling is a western medicine technique based on understanding of the musculoskeletal system, while acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice based on the concept of energy flow and balance.

Benefits of Dry Needling for Tennis Elbow

There are several potential benefits of dry needling for tennis elbow. The primary benefit is pain relief. By targeting trigger points associated with tennis elbow, dry needling can help reduce pain and discomfort. In many cases, patients may experience immediate relief following a dry needling session. This can significantly improve quality of life, particularly for those who have been living with chronic pain.

Another benefit of dry needling for tennis elbow is improved mobility. Tennis elbow often results in a restricted range of motion due to pain and inflammation. Dry needling can help loosen tight muscles and reduce inflammation, thereby improving the flexibility and function of the elbow joint. This can make it easier to perform daily tasks and participate in physical activities.

Lastly, dry needling can potentially enhance the effects of other treatments. It can be used in conjunction with physical therapy, exercises, and medication to provide a comprehensive approach to managing tennis elbow. By addressing the condition from multiple angles, it's possible to achieve better and more lasting results.

Is Dry Needling Right for Your Tennis Elbow?

While tennis elbow can be a painful and debilitating condition, there are various treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Dry needling, with its potential benefits and minimal side effects, may just be the treatment you need to get back to your normal activities with less pain.

To learn more on how dry needling can help with tennis elbow, visit Cashae Spine & Sports at our office in Silver Spring, Maryland. We are committed to providing high-quality chiropractic care treatments and services. Call (240) 219-8975 to schedule an appointment today.