What Is Tennis Elbow and the Benefits of Massage


Tennis elbow is different than Golfers elbow, both are manifestations of epicondylitis which are painful. They both start from repetitive motion and can have flare ups if not treated properly. This injury needs adequate rest to heal which can be a challenge if it stemmed from work (hammering, painters, plumbers, butchers, repetitive computer mouse use, and carpentry). 

Tennis Elbow is overuse and strain of the forearm muscles that are used to straighten and raise the hand and wrist. There are tiny tears that form in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow. Tennis elbow is triggered by the tendons in the forearm that perform extension of the wrist and fingers. 

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Pain may radiate from the outer side of the elbow into the forearm and wrist. The pain and weakness make it difficult to rotate the forearm for uses such as turning a door knob, tools, gripping objects, shaking hands, holding a cup. 

Benefits of Massage for Tennis Elbow 

Work focused on the elbow, wrist and forearms can:

  • Remove toxin buildup and other elements that contribute to inflammation and flare ups 
  • Improve flexibility with affected muscles and tendons 
  • Improve active range of motion, strength, and recovery

"I had a great time coming in to A2 every week. Everyone was really helpful and fun to be around. The exercises we did made a huge difference in getting my body and confidence back to shape. Next time I'm injured, I will know just where to go. Thank you!"

− Eric

"Everyone at A2 is fantastic. Had a great experience from the 1st phone call. Don't change, you guys are awesome!"

− Doug

"My wife was trying to get me to go to A2 after she was enjoying the classes. I am busy and wanted to go but always had an excuse. Well one she pre-paid for me to go. Time for me to face my fears about why I hadn’t been going because now I am going. First, I was in ok shape active just not work out shape plus what if I couldn’t beat my wife or the other women in class? What if I passed out?

As Saturday approached my fears rose and my brain searched for an excuse. Yet when I arrived at the class what I found was nothing like I was fearing, quite the opposite. Everyone is focused on their own pace. While being motivating Kristi is not forceful but positive and supportive, coaching each person at their ability.

It has not been a month of one day a week, my body has reacted by toning up, my six pack is back. My wife was mad and happy at the same time. I have been seeing a chiropractor for maintenance and recently my body is firming up and I do not feel the aches and pains of getting older. Was I sore after the first workout? Yes for a few days I was sore, but each week the soreness would decrease. After a month I am not sore but stiff the next day, feeling stronger each workout.

Thank you, A2 Physical Therapy and Kristi, for the good music and for pushing us without pressuring us."

− Mike