Assess & Address Tennis Elbow by Whitney Lowe	See Issue 109 Other Assess & Address Articles
Pathology Assessment & Evaluation Treatment Massage Techniques

One of the most commonly occurring upper-extremity injuries is lateral epicondylitis, also called tennis elbow. While tennis players may get this condition, they make up only a small fraction of the individuals who have the problem. These days it is more often seen as a repetitive-stress injury from various occupations.

Carpenters, assembly-line workers, and data-entry clerks are just a few of the people whose jobs may create this condition. Coincidentally, massage therapists are also affected, and the condition, if not treated, could force them to cut their careers short.

Though the name implies an inflammation of the epicondyle, the injury actually occurs in the extensor tendons of the wrist, making it primarily a soft-tissue condition. Accurate assessment and an understanding of the condition are prerequisites to its relief.

Lateral epicondylitis is effectively helped with massage therapy. Even in conditions where the problem has become chronic, massage may be one of the best approaches.

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