Tennis elbow is a painful condition that is caused by the inflammation of the forearm tendons. Generally speaking, tennis elbow affects older people. This is usually down to employment or activities that involves the use of the arms, forearms and the fingers in a repeated manner over a number of years.

Carpenters, plumbers, computer operators and assembly line workers are all at an increased risk of developing tennis elbow later in their lives, as well as people who frequently partake in activities such as gardening or sports. This article looks at some simple physiotherapy exercises that can help to relieve the pain caused by this condition.

Wrist Turn

This simple exercise involves bending the arm at the elbow so that the palm of the hand is facing upwards. From here, the patient should slowly turn their palm until it is facing downwards. After holding this position for a few seconds, the palm should be turned so that it is again facing upwards. This exercise can help to build up the strength in the tendons, and can be repeated with a weight (such as a can of soup) to enhance the effects of the exercise.

Wrist Lift

Using the same weight, hold the can, palm upwards, and bend the arm at the elbow. From here, slowly move the wrist and weight towards the body, as far as you can go. Hold in this position, release and repeat. This exercise is great for improving the strength in the tendons of the wrist.

Wrist Flex

This exercise is good for ensuring that the scope of movement in a person's hand and wrist is maintained, as well as helping to reduce pain. Extend an arm out in front of the body, so that the palm is facing downwards. Using the other hand, take hold of the fingers and slowly bend them down and in towards the body. Go as far as you can, then hold for a few seconds, release and repeat.

Bent Elbow

This is another exercise that is simple to do, and can be done almost anywhere. To begin with, stand up straight, and allow the affected arm to hang at the side of the body. From here, slowly bend the arm at the elbow, and raise the arm until it is touching the shoulder, or as close to the shoulder as possible. Hold in this position, release and repeat.

Tennis elbow exercises can help not only to relieve pain, but prevent future pain by maintaining the scope of movement and building up the strength of the tendons in the arm. For more tips, contact local resources such as Como Physiotherapy Clinic.