Tennis elbow, also known as elbow epicondylitis can stop you from enjoying your favorite sport or going about your work effectively. If you have suffered from it in the past, then you know how painful it can get, and you also understand the importance of preventing it instead of waiting for it to occur before you can take any action.
In this piece, we will look at some easy tips you can use to prevent the condition and to ensure that you never have to worry about suffering from it.
General tips for preventing epicondylitis
To begin with, stop making the same hand and arm movements all the time. If this is something that you can’t avoid, then consider using braces and taking regular breaks so that you can prevent the buildup of pressure on the elbow and the upper arm region.
Also, while working or exercising, remember to stick to the middle of your range of motion and avoid straightening or bending your arms to the full range of motion. You should also make it a habit of warming up properly before you play sports or get involved in activities that will warrant repetitive motions of the arms.
Preventing epicondylitis at work
If you can avoid working with bent wrists, then that would be highly recommended. If possible, always always work with wrists in a straight posture. Also, instead of sharp, jerky movements, stick with smooth movements that will not shock the elbows and cause unnecessary tension to the tendons.
While still at work, think about talking with your manager about rotating jobs, having a different workstation, or taking on different tasks if doing so would help ease the pain or avoid it altogether.
Preventing epicondylitis when using tools
If your job involves using tools, then you need to take extra precautions to ensure your work will not contribute to the development of elbow epicondylitis. To begin with, consider using tools with bigger grips, and make it a habit of putting on gloves or getting additional padding for extra caution when using such tools.
Also, hold the tools with a looser grip so that you take off some of the tension out of your hand and wrists. If the nature of your job involves using a hammer, use one with enough padding to help absorb the excess shock that might end up contributing to epicondylitis.
Observing the above will greatly reduce your chances of suffering from elbow epicondylitis. If, however, you observe all the above, but the pain still persists, then you may consider seeing a doctor for appropriate tennis elbow treatment. Don’t wait long before seeking medical assistance if the pain won’t go away.
