Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow: Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach to Alleviating Pain and Restoring Mobility
by Gavin Larsen
Acupuncture has long been recognized as an effective treatment for various musculoskeletal issues, including the common condition known as Tennis Elbow, which would fall under the category of Niǔ Shāng (Sprain) in traditional Chinese medical terms. Tennis Elbow is characterized by pain and swelling around the elbow joint, often resulting from repetitive motions or overuse. In TCM, it falls under the syndrome pattern of Static Qi and Blood Obstruction.
The etiology of Tennis Elbow can be attributed to factors such as strenuous exercise, external blows, falls, or forceful stretching, all of which can lead to the stagnation of qi and blood in the affected area. Additionally, invasion through exposure of external wind, cold, and dampness can exacerbate the condition, prolonging recovery and even affecting other parts of the body over time.
In TCM, the clinical manifestations of Tennis Elbow include local distention, swelling, and pain, sometimes accompanied by redness or dark purple discoloration, as well as restricted movement. Acupuncture treatment aims to rectify qi, quicken the blood, soothe soft tissues, and clear the channels to alleviate these symptoms.
For Tennis Elbow specifically, acupoints such as LI-11 (Qu Chi), SI-08 (Xiao Hai), TB-10 (Tian Jing), and LI-04 (He Gu) are commonly used. These points help to restore the flow of qi and blood, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain in the affected area. LI-11 (Qu Chi) is especially effective for clearing heat and inflammation in the elbow joint, while LI-04 (He Gu) helps to promote circulation and alleviate pain.
During acupuncture sessions for Tennis Elbow, it's important for the practitioner to manipulate the needles while having the patient move the injured elbow. This technique helps to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment by promoting circulation and restoring functional mobility. By combining acupuncture with movement therapy, patients can experience faster relief and improved range of motion.
In cases of chronic Tennis Elbow where symptoms persist or worsen, modifications to the treatment plan may be necessary. This can involve addressing underlying factors such as wind, cold, and dampness, as well as nourishing the blood and harmonizing the channels to promote healing and relieve pain. Additional acupoints such as SP-10 (Xue Hai) and ST-36 (Zu San Li) may be included to tonify qi and strengthen the body's overall resilience.
In addition to acupuncture, Tuina massage, cupping and gua sha (scraping) are also beneficial as auxiliary treatments for Tennis Elbow to help relax muscles, reduce tension, and improve circulation in the affected area. By incorporating these additional techniques into the treatment plan, patients can experience synergistic benefits that enhance the overall effectiveness of the therapy.
About Gavin
Practicing at the intersection of the healing traditions of Acupuncture and TCM and modern scientific understanding, Gavin's is passionate about helping individuals achieve optimal health, fitness, and overall well-being.
With his comprehensive knowledge and personalized approach, Gavin empowers our community to harness the benefits of acupuncture for enhanced sports performance, expedited recovery, and overall well-being.
Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow Vancouver
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach to the treatment of Tennis Elbow, addressing both the physical symptoms and underlying imbalances in the body. By restoring the flow of qi and blood and promoting healing, acupuncture can provide effective relief for Tennis Elbow and support long-term recovery and prevention.
