- What it is
- Overloaded forearm tendons at the elbow
- How we treat it
- Focused shockwave + corrective exercise
- Typical plan
- Usually 3 to 6 sessions
- Referral
- Not needed
What are tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
The muscles that grip and move your wrist attach to your elbow through tendons. Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Golfer's elbow affects the inside. Both happen when repeated gripping and wrist motion overload the tendon faster than it can recover.
Common symptoms
- Pain on the outside (tennis elbow) or inside (golfer's elbow) of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting, turning a door handle, or shaking hands
- A weaker grip
- Pain that spreads into the forearm
What causes it
- Repeated gripping at work, like tools, typing, or using a mouse
- Racquet sports, golf, and weight training
- Lifting with the wrist bent
- A sudden increase in a gripping activity
How we treat it
We check your elbow, and also your neck and shoulder, since problems there can cause similar pain. Then we build a plan around three steps:
- Focused shockwave therapy to restart healing in the tendon
- Soft tissue work on the forearm to ease tension and pain
- Corrective exercises that gradually strengthen the tendon and your grip so it holds up to daily life
Where we see you
We have two offices, both inside Parkway Athletic Club and open to everyone, no gym membership needed. South Reno is on Double Diamond Parkway, close to Damonte Ranch and South Meadows. Sparks is on East Lincoln Way, near The Outlets at Legends.
Questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Richard Wolf, the maker of our PiezoWave2T, describes the treatment as gentle and for the most part pain-free. Most people feel a firm tapping, and we adjust the intensity to your comfort. No needles or anesthesia.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually 3 to 6 sessions, each about 10 to 20 minutes. Dr. Covert will map out your plan at your first visit based on your exam.
When should I see a medical doctor instead?
If the pain started with a fall or a sudden pop, your elbow looks deformed or badly swollen, you can't bend or straighten it, or your hand is numb or weak, see a medical doctor first.
Is shockwave covered by insurance?
Shockwave therapy isn't covered by insurance. Call us for current pricing, and we'll go over the cost before you start.
Paying yourself? You have the right to a Good Faith Estimate
Do I need a referral?
No referral needed. You can book directly with Dr. Covert online or by phone.