Most of us use the computer on a daily basis. From working, to gaming, to checking up on current events and internet shopping, regular computer usage has exponentially increased within the past decade for people of all ages. While the computer can be a major source of entertainment, accessibility, and even necessity, it can also cause physical ailments to occur with regular daily use. Tennis Elbow (or lateral epicondylitis), is a painful inflammation that is caused by overuse of the tendons that surround the elbow. These tendons control the small movements required to control a mouse or type on a keyboard, which begin to ache with constant daily usage, especially when there is not enough time for these tendons to recover between uses. This ache can turn into an extreme tenderness over time, which can turn into a consistent pain just above the elbow. It may be a radiating pain, or a localized pain, depending on the type of repetitive movement the arm is required to do. Tennis Elbow has been nicknamed “Computer Elbow” within the past few years, as the majority of sufferers are experiencing this condition due to the use of computers rather than from playing tennis.
While Tennis (or Computer) Elbow can turn into a serious and debilitating condition, there are ways for individuals to relieve the pain and stress of experiencing this type of inflammation.
If you are looking for non-invasive, effective treatments for Tennis Elbow in the Lower Mainland, we have what you are looking for at Evolve Therapeutic.
Registered Massage Therapy
Computer Elbow comes with a variety of symptoms, ranging from slight discomfort to extreme pain in some cases. Registered Massage Therapy (RMT) can help relieve these discomforts to assist with daily living activities and routines. An RMT is able to pinpoint overworked muscles and treat tension in the wrists, hands, and forearms that can contribute to the development of Computer Elbow. RMT can offer relief not only from the direct sources of discomfort, but also the other parts of the body that overcompensate for the weakness and pain in one specific area of the body. For instance, if you are experiencing extreme pain in your right elbow and forearm but you need to continue to cook dinner every day, your left arm and forearm may compensate for the deficits in ability in your right arm to lift pots and pans or holding ingredients while chopping and washing. An RMT will be able to locate these overcompensations and help relieve all areas of the body that are affected by Computer Elbow.
Physiotherapy
A licensed physiotherapist is able to use a variety of tools and techniques to target the inflamed muscles, tendons, and ligaments that contribute to the symptoms associated with Computer Elbow. They may use an ultrasound machine to reduce swelling and inflammation, or dry needling to release trigger points that hold tension and discomfort. A physiotherapist can also use hand-on techniques by applying manual therapy to gently mobilize joints, stretch muscles, and release tension. A physiotherapist can also give you useful stretches and exercises for you to do independently to help aid your recovery at home in the days to come.
Acupuncture
Although many people believe that only modern medicine can help with problems associated with modern technology and related ailments, in reality, ancient methods of treatment such as acupuncture are scientifically proven to alleviate pain and encourage healing. Acupuncture treatments can increase blood flow and stimulate the nervous system to produce more natural methods of pain relief such as endorphins, in order to address the symptoms of Computer Elbow and initiate natural healing processes.
Treating Your Computer Elbow
While Computer Elbow can be a painful andstressful condition that keeps you from any activities from hobbies tohousehold chores, treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, andphysiotherapy can help you relieve pain. At Evolve Therapeutic, we have a variety of practitioners who are readyand willing to help you in the way that you need, so you can get back tohealthy and comfortable living.
