With a city full of weekend warriors and an active population, we see a lot of sprains and strains in the office. One of the most common sports injuries we treat and see is the tennis elbow.
Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed or have micro-tearing. Tennis elbow occurs after repetitive motions and overuse of those muscles( like swinging a tennis racket).
What research studies have found?
In a study at Mayo Clinic that used acupuncture to treat 22 people with chronic tennis elbow, they found that 80% got complete and long last relief, while an additional had experienced a 10% marked improvement (1).
Another study published in the Oxford Journal of Rheumatology found similar results in a randomized, controlled study; they found a 50% pain reduction after only 2 weeks of acupuncture treatments (2).
Don't let tennis elbow keep you from missing out-- Acupuncture can help!!
Acupuncture has been repeatedly proven to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and increase blood circulation. It does so by activating qi and blood along meridians, or channels, that travel the length of the body.
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for all injuries, and there is no risk of side effects that are often associated with cortisone shots and anti-inflammatories. Even better, acupuncture also improves your sleep, energy, and overall well-being. If you have tennis elbow, consider acupuncture to get you back in the game!
Resources:
1. Devitt, M. “Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow: Study Suggests Treatment is Effective, Even in Difficult Cases.” Acupuncture Today (2002).
2. Fink, M. “Acupuncture in chronic epicondylitis: a randomized controlled trial.” Rheumatology (Oxford) 41.2 (2002): 205-209.