As a tennis player in Austin, whether you’re rallying at the Austin Tennis Center or competing in CATA league matches, tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) can make every forehand or serve painful. At FRWD Sports Therapy in Rollingwood and Westlake, Dr. Alyssa Cappelletti, a chiropractor, helps tennis players overcome elbow pain and return to the court stronger. Here’s how to relieve tennis elbow and prevent it from slowing you down.
Why Tennis Players Get Elbow Pain
Tennis elbow occurs from repetitive stress on the forearm tendons, often caused by:
- Overuse: Frequent serves or groundstrokes strain the elbow’s extensor tendons.
- Poor Technique: Improper grip or swing mechanics increase tendon stress.
- Weak Forearm Muscles: Lack of strength leads to overuse injuries.
Austin’s vibrant tennis community, from Westlake High courts to South Austin Tennis Center, faces these issues due to year-round play.
Our Approach at FRWD
At FRWD Sports Therapy, we address the root cause of tennis elbow. In a 60-minute initial session, Dr. Cappelletti assesses your elbow, wrist, and shoulder to identify dysfunctions. Treatments may include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: To improve elbow and shoulder joint mobility.
- Soft Tissue Therapies: Dry needling or myofascial release to reduce forearm tension.
- Functional Rehabilitation: Exercises like wrist extensions or grip strengtheners to build resilience.
For example, a tennis player with elbow pain might receive adjustments for joint alignment, soft tissue therapy for tight forearms, and a rehab plan to improve grip strength.
Tips to Prevent Tennis Elbow
Keep your elbows healthy with these strategies:
- Warm Up Properly: Do wrist and forearm stretches before playing at Caswell Tennis Center.
- Refine Your Technique: Work with a coach at Austin Tennis Academy to optimize your serve and grip.
- Strengthen Forearms: Add wrist curls or reverse wrist curls to your routine.
- Use Proper Equipment: Ensure your racket’s grip size is correct—visit Tennis Express in Austin for a fitting.
- Act Early: Seek care at the first sign of pain to prevent chronic issues.
Optimize Your Tennis Game
Our 30-minute performance optimization sessions help injury-free players enhance their game. Dr. Cappelletti assesses your biomechanics to improve elbow mobility, shoulder stability, and swing power, keeping you competitive and pain-free.
Book Your Initial Exam with 10% Off
Don’t let tennis elbow stop your Austin game. At FRWD Sports Therapy, we help players return to the court pain-free. Get 10% off your initial exam by mentioning “10% off” in your intake form’s comments section when booking online. Visit frwdsportstherapy.com or call our Rollingwood or Westlake office for same-day appointments. Swing stronger today!
FAQ: Tennis Elbow
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive stress on the forearm tendons, often from overuse in tennis swings, poor technique, or improper racket grip size.
How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
With proper treatment, like chiropractic care and rehab, most cases improve in 4–8 weeks, though severe cases may take longer.
Can I play tennis with tennis elbow?
Playing through pain can worsen the injury. Rest, treatment, and modified technique are key before returning to play.
How can I prevent tennis elbow?
Warm up properly, use correct racket grip size, strengthen forearm muscles, and seek early care for discomfort.