Tennis Elbow Recovery Made Easier: The Role of Dry Needling Therapy

Tennis elbow can be a frustrating condition, causing pain and stiffness that interferes with daily activities and athletic performance. Dry needling, a modern and effective therapy, offers relief by targeting the underlying muscle tension and dysfunction associated with this condition. In this blog, we’ll dive into the causes of this condition, how dry needling works for tennis elbow, and the lifestyle changes and exercises that can complement this treatment for lasting results.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique performed by trained physiotherapists to treat muscle pain and dysfunction. It involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into trigger points or tight bands of muscle tissue. These needles stimulate the muscle, promoting relaxation, reducing pain, and improving function.

Unlike acupuncture, which is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and aims to restore energy flow, dry needling is based on modern scientific understanding of anatomy and neuromuscular systems. Its primary goal is to alleviate localized pain and improve mobility by targeting the source of discomfort.

Tennis Elbow Explained

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that involves pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition isn’t limited to tennis players. It frequently affects individuals whose activities involve repetitive wrist and arm motions, such as painters, carpenters, and office workers. 

Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, weakness in grip strength, and discomfort when lifting or gripping objects. Many people also experience worsening pain with repetitive motions, such as typing or using tools. Without timely and effective treatment, tennis elbow can significantly interfere with daily life, making interventions like dry needling essential for recovery.

Benefits of Dry Needling for Tennis Elbow

Dry needling offers several advantages for managing tennis elbow, including:

• Pain Reduction: By targeting tight muscle bands and trigger points, dry needling helps alleviate localized pain in the affected area.
• Improved Mobility: The release of muscle tension and improved blood flow facilitate greater range of motion in the elbow and wrist.
• Enhanced Healing: The micro-trauma caused by needle insertion stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, encouraging tissue repair.
• Reduced Inflammation: By relaxing tight muscles and improving circulation, dry needling helps decrease inflammation around the elbow joint.
• Non-Invasive Solution: Unlike surgical interventions, dry needling is minimally invasive, with little to no downtime required.

When combined with other treatments like stretching, strengthening exercises, and physiotherapy, dry needling can accelerate recovery and restore function.

How Many Dry Needling Sessions Are Needed for Tennis Elbow Recovery?

The number of dry needling sessions required for tennis elbow recovery depends on factors like the severity of the condition, individual healing capacity, and the physiotherapist’s treatment plan. Mild cases often show noticeable improvement after one to three sessions. In contrast, moderate to severe cases may require five to eight sessions spaced over several weeks. 

Recovery progress is carefully monitored by the physiotherapist, who adjusts the treatment plan as necessary to ensure optimal results. For enhanced recovery, dry needling is often combined with other therapies, such as manual therapy and targeted exercises.

Dry Needling Session for Tennis Elbow: What to Expect

If you’re new to dry needling, understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable during treatment. Here’s what typically happens during a session:

1. Initial Assessment: Your physiotherapist will assess the affected area, review your symptoms, and determine the best approach for your condition.
2. Preparation: The therapist will clean the area and explain the procedure to ensure you’re comfortable and informed.
3. Needle Insertion: Thin needles are gently inserted into the trigger points or tense areas of the forearm and elbow muscles. You may feel a mild twitch response, which indicates the muscle is relaxing.
4. Duration: Needles are typically left in place for a few minutes, depending on the treatment plan.
5. Post-Treatment Advice: After the session, your physiotherapist may recommend specific exercises or stretches to support recovery and prevent future issues.

Expectations for Pain: While dry needling involves some discomfort, it’s generally well-tolerated. The sensation can vary from mild pressure to a quick twitch response, followed by muscle relaxation. Any post-treatment soreness is typically mild and resolves within 24–48 hours.

Dry Needling for Tennis Elbow: Possible Risks and Side Effects

Dry needling is a safe and minimally invasive treatment, but like any medical intervention, it comes with potential risks and side effects. These are generally mild and temporary, and your physiotherapist will take precautions to minimize them. Common side effects include:

• Soreness: Mild soreness or tenderness around the needling site is common and usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
• Bruising: Small bruises may develop at the needle insertion points but typically heal quickly.
• Fatigue: Some individuals report feeling tired or relaxed after a session, which is often a sign that the treatment has stimulated the body’s natural healing processes.
• Rare Complications: In very rare cases, dry needling may cause dizziness or fainting. Trained professionals are skilled in managing these situations.

By choosing a qualified and experienced physiotherapist, you can ensure the treatment is performed safely and effectively.

Supporting Tennis Elbow Recovery: Recommended Lifestyle Changes

In addition to treatments like dry needling, lifestyle modifications can significantly enhance your recovery from tennis elbow. Incorporating these changes into your daily routine can alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid repetitive motions that strain the elbow, and take breaks during tasks like typing or lifting.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Use ergonomic tools and setups, such as a wrist brace or an adjustable workstation, to reduce strain.
• Cold Therapy: Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation, especially after activities that exacerbate symptoms.
• Nutrition: Maintain a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish to support healing.
• Stay Active: Engage in low-impact activities like walking or swimming to maintain overall fitness without putting stress on the elbow.

These changes, combined with effective treatment, can accelerate recovery and improve your quality of life.

Can Tennis Elbow Be Cured Permanently?

Tennis elbow can often be treated effectively, with many individuals achieving long-term relief. However, recurrence is possible if the root causes, such as repetitive strain or poor technique, are not addressed. Regular follow-ups with a physiotherapist can help monitor progress and prevent future problems. Consistently performing strengthening and flexibility exercises also plays a key role in maintaining elbow health. 

Proper techniques, whether during sports or daily tasks, minimize unnecessary strain on the elbow. It’s equally important to recognize early signs of discomfort and seek prompt treatment to prevent minor issues from escalating. While achieving a permanent “cure” depends on individual circumstances, ongoing care and preventive measures can lead to lasting relief and a significant reduction in the likelihood of recurrence.

Managing Tennis Elbow: Recommended Mobility Exercises

Exercises play a crucial role in managing tennis elbow by strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and reducing tension. Here are some effective exercises to incorporate into your recovery routine:

• Wrist Extensor Stretch: Extend your arm straight in front of you with the palm facing down. Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers downward until you feel a stretch in your forearm. Hold this position for 15–30 seconds and repeat 3–5 times.
• Wrist Curls: Hold a light dumbbell or resistance band with your palm facing upward. Slowly curl your wrist upward, then lower it back to the starting position. Perform 2–3 sets of 10–15 repetitions.
• Supination with Dumbbell: Hold a light dumbbell in your hand with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle. Slowly rotate your forearm so your palm faces upward, then reverse the motion. Repeat for 2–3 sets of 10–15 repetitions.
• Towel Twist: Hold a rolled-up towel with both hands. Twist the towel in opposite directions as if wringing out water. Alternate directions for 10–15 repetitions.

Incorporate these exercises into your routine 3–4 times a week or as recommended by your physiotherapist to improve mobility and strengthen the muscles supporting your elbow.

Enhanced Mobility and Pain Relief

Dry needling is a highly effective treatment for relieving the pain and dysfunction caused by tennis elbow. Combined with proper lifestyle adjustments and targeted exercises, it provides a comprehensive approach to recovery and prevention. 

At Roar Physio | Wellness, we’re committed to helping you regain comfort and mobility with care tailored to your needs. Book your session today and take the first step toward a pain-free and active life.