Tennis elbow is a pretty painful condition. Although it can be caused by all sorts of activities, it is, as its name suggests, common among tennis players.
In addition to the discomfort caused by tennis elbow, it can also seriously ruin your game, possibly making it impossible for you to play until it's healed. For a keen tennis player, that's a terrible thought.
Even professional players sometimes experience tennis elbow, but less often than amateurs. And that's because it can be prevented, or at least the risks limited. Here are some suggestions to help you avoid this unpleasant affliction.
Perfect your technique
One of the reasons pros are less likely to get tennis elbow is that they've had plenty of coaching. With regular teaching, they've developed a good technique that helps avoid injuries. One of the riskiest strokes is the backhand, so spend extra time practising how to do one safely.
The most important thing to remember is that, if your wrist is firm and straight, the impact of the tennis ball and the effort of hitting it back will be better absorbed by the arm. This minimises strain on your elbow.
If you're struggling to learn and maintain a good technique, some coaching may be useful.
Remember to exercise
Like any exercise, warming up properly is essential before a tennis match or practice session. But the arms are often neglected, even though tennis is particularly focused on this part of the body.
One of the best stretches to beat elbow strain is a simple forearm stretch. Hold one hand out with the palm facing upward, and then point the fingers towards the ground. With the other hand, gently pull the fingers towards the body to feel the stretch. Switch arms and repeat.
Building strength in your forearms is another good way to keep tennis elbow at bay. There are many different ways to do this, but one of the easiest and most fitting is to spend a few minutes squeezing a tennis ball each day.
Change your racquet
The right racquet can help your technique and keep your arms safe. Opting for one at the heavier end of the spectrum can reduce the force that reaches the arm, and a soft grip can also help by giving extra cushioning.
Stay aware
If you start to notice elbow pain during or after tennis sessions, you should take a break from playing to let your arm heal. It's also worth reviewing every aspect of your game, from technique to equipment, to see where improvements can be made. Seek treatment early for pain, to avoid it getting worse.
Share8 June 2017
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes ten years ago. Since my diagnosis, I have been committed to learning how to modify my lifestyle and adopt healthy practices, such as daily exercise and eating wholefoods, that help control my diabetes and improve my quality of life. I started this blog to connect with others living with this condition and to share what I've learned on my personal journey to better health. I also update the blog with the latest research and news relating to type 2 diabetes. If you have a specific question that's not been addressed in a blog post, feel free to send me an email.
