How to Relieve Elbow Pain with Physical Therapy

There are many reasons for elbow pain. The pain usually starts in the elbow and radiates down the arm and to the wrist. The pain may be a sharp or a constant ache. No matter the cause of the pain, it can leave you on the sidelines at work and play.

The good news is that you can relieve elbow pain with physical therapy.

The Causes of Elbow Pain

You may have hit your “funny bone,” have a repetitive injury from work or tennis, or tendons may be inflamed. Here is a list of common reasons behind elbow pain:

  • You started a new sport such as tennis or golf
  • Your elbow hurts due to trauma from an accident
  • Arthritis and aging have decreased your range of motion
  • Bursitis or inflamed bursae
  • Tendinopathy or inflamed tendons and muscles
  • Sprains and strains
  • A dislocated elbow
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Compressed or overstretched nerve

You may notice an inability to grip items or you have pain with lifting objects. Without attention and care, pain in the elbow will spread down your arm to your wrist. If your elbow pain does not resolve with rest, ice and heat and lasts more than a few days, it is time to call your physician or book a physical therapy appointment.

Relieve Elbow Pain with Physical Therapy

Depending on the cause of the pain, you can expect physical therapy to last between two to eight weeks. During treatment, a specialist will create a custom plan that includes many or all of the below:

  • Manual Therapy
  • An elbow brace or tape for support
  • Stretching, strength, and flexibility exercises
  • Forearm strengthening techniques
  • A review of your daily activity with ideas for change
  • Posture and work ergonomics education
  • At-home exercises for both during PT and afterward

Elbow Pain : What Can You Expect at The Therapy Network?

First, appointments are available today at six locations in the Hampton Roads, Virginia region. You do not need a physician’s referral in Virginia to schedule your first physical therapy appointment.

During your initial appointment, a therapist specialist will evaluate your elbow and your pain level. They will create a custom treatment plan to follow at future appointments and home.