How Dry Needling Can Help Relieve Tennis Elbow Pain

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons attached to the outer elbow. It often results in microtears, inflammation, and impaired function of the affected tendons. At Southgate Physio, we specialise in advanced therapies like dry needling, which directly targets the source of the problem and accelerates the healing process. Combined with other cutting-edge physiotherapy techniques, we provide a comprehensive approach to tennis elbow recovery.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry needling involves the insertion of a thin, sterile needle into trigger points or tight bands of muscle near the affected area. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling focuses on addressing specific musculoskeletal dysfunctions.

For tennis elbow, dry needling targets the damaged tendons and surrounding muscles, stimulating a cascade of physiological effects that promote tissue repair and pain relief.

How Dry Needling Supports Tennis Elbow Recovery

Stimulates Tissue Repair

When a dry needle is inserted into the affected tendon or muscle, it creates a controlled microtrauma. This microtrauma stimulates the body’s natural healing response, including:

• Angiogenesis: Formation of new blood vessels in the injured area to improve oxygen and nutrient delivery.
• Collagen Production: Encourages the rebuilding of healthy tendon fibers, which is essential for repairing microtears caused by overuse.

Reduces Pain and Inflammation

Dry needling helps regulate local inflammation by altering chemical signals in the tissues, such as reducing elevated levels of pain-causing substances like bradykinin and substance P. It also releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, to provide relief.

Relaxes Overactive Muscles

Tennis elbow often involves muscle tightness in the forearm, which exacerbates the strain on the tendons. Dry needling deactivates trigger points in these muscles, relieving tension and improving movement.

Improves Circulation and Waste Clearance

The treatment enhances local blood flow, aiding in the removal of waste products like lactic acid while delivering essential nutrients to the area. This creates an environment conducive to faster healing.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Dry Needling for Tennis Elbow

Research consistently highlights the benefits of dry needling in treating conditions like tennis elbow:

• Stoychev, V., Finestone, A.S. & Kalichman, L. Dry Needling as a Treatment Modality for Tendinopathy: a Narrative Review. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 13, 133–140 (2020)
• Hortz, B. V., & Falsone, S. (2024). Treating Lateral Epicondylopathy With Dry Needling and Exercise: A Case Series. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 33(4), 301-306.
• Navarro-Santana, M.J., Sanchez-Infante, J., Gómez-Chiguano, G.F., Cleland, J.A., López-de-Uralde-Villanueva, I., Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C. and Plaza-Manzano, G., 2020. Effects of trigger point dry needling on lateral epicondylalgia of musculoskeletal origin: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical rehabilitation, 34(11), pp.1327-1340.

The Role of Combination Therapy in Tennis Elbow Recovery

At Southgate Physio, dry needling is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. To ensure optimal results, we combine it with the following therapies:

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques like deep tissue massage and joint mobilisation complement dry needling by improving mobility and reducing stiffness in the elbow and surrounding areas.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy delivers high-energy sound waves to the affected tendon, further promoting tissue regeneration, reducing pain, and breaking down calcifications in chronic cases.

Ultrasound-Guided Interventions

For precise treatment, we use ultrasound imaging to assess the extent of the injury and guide interventions like dry needling or injections, ensuring accuracy and effectiveness.

Strengthening and Stretching Exercises

Our physiotherapists develop tailored exercise programs to rebuild strength in the forearm muscles and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of re-injury.

Clinical Pilates

Rehabilitation-focused Pilates helps improve posture and biomechanical alignment, supporting the arm and preventing compensatory movements that might worsen the condition.

Why Choose Southgate Physio for Tennis Elbow Treatment?

At Southgate Physio, we bring years of expertise and advanced technology to ensure the best possible care for our patients. Here’s what you can expect:

• Expert Physiotherapists: Our experienced team customises each treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
• Comprehensive Care: From dry needling and manual therapy to ultrasound-guided interventions and clinical Pilates, we offer a full spectrum of solutions.
• State-of-the-Art Diagnostics: Ultrasound imaging allows us to pinpoint the cause of your pain and monitor your progress over time.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritise your comfort and long-term recovery, ensuring you leave with the tools to manage your condition and prevent recurrence.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

If you’re struggling with tennis elbow and haven’t found relief with conventional treatments, dry needling at Southgate Physio might be the solution you need. Combined with our wide range of advanced therapies, we’ll help you reduce pain, repair damaged tissues, and regain full function.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your personalised recovery journey.

Southgate Physio: Innovative solutions for pain relief and rehabilitation, helping you move better and live better.

For more information on our services or to book an appointment, please visit our website or contact us directly. If you want to know more, feel free to get in touch with us by calling 0208 3686767 or emailing us at info@southgatephysio.co.uk

Physiotherapy Services We Offer

Our clinic offers a wide range of treatments that are all recommended and tailored to everyone who comes and visits us. Our range of treatments complements the body and mind, helping to keep you pain and injury-free, delivering preventative measures to maintain your well-being and enhance your performance levels.

Our main aim is to restore your personal well-being so you can enjoy an active, healthy, and pain-free life. Click on any of the services to find out a little more about each treatment and understand if it might be right for you.

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