What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow is a general term for the condition caused by overuse of arm and forearm muscles that result in the pain of the elbow. It specifically involves the area where muscles and tendons of the forearm attach to the outside bony area (epicondyle) of the elbow. It usually affects people in their dominant arm, but it is possible to occur in the nondominant or even both arms.

What is the symptom of tennis elbow?

The main symptom reveals the slowly increased pain around the epicondyle of the elbow. Pain can develop suddenly, but is less common. The elbow pain increases when the arm is used for squeezing, lifting, cleaning (such as scrubbing or wiping), or even handling utensils when eating.

What is the possible cause of tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow pain is resulted from the abrupt or subtle tearing of muscles and tendons around the lateral side of the elbow.

Does this disorder only apply to tennis players?

Although tennis players have a greater chance to develop this pain, tennis elbow may occur to all those who participate in leisure or work activities that require repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movements.

What should I do if I experience the elbow pain?

Those who experience the elbow pain should avoid any activity that aggravates the pain to prevent further injuries that might lead to permanent damage and seek for treatment as soon as possible.

How can acupuncture treat tennis elbow?

For this condition, acupuncture treatment is directed toward relaxing the muscles and tendons and opening the meridian pathways of the surrounding areas to restore Qi (energy) and blood circulation for pain control. It is believed that the pain is attributed to the strain along the muscle channels at the elbow that impede the flow of Qi and blood.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

What is rheumatoid arthritis (R.A.)?

This is a common disease of the joints where the membranes or tissues lining the joints become inflamed and destroying the joints. Women have a higher chance to develop RA than men. Although the common age of onset is between 50 to 70 years of age, RA can start as early as in childhood.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

RA reveals as pain, stiffness, and swelling of the affected joints, especially of the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, knees or neck.

What is the cause of rheumatoid arthritis?

The exact cause and trigger is unknown. RA is an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s own immune system attacks the joint tissues. Genetic factor is believed to increase the risk of developing RA.

How do I cope with rheumatoid arthritis?

Early treatment is strongly recommended to prevent from progression or even permanent disability. It is important to maintain a good communication with your health professionals and receive regular treatment methods to obtain successful results.

How can acupuncture treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Acupuncture is relatively effective in treating this condition by removing the obstructions in the affected meridians hindered by pathogenic factors Wind, Cold, and/or Dampness. These factors may attack the joint singly or in combination, causing blood coagulation and circulatory disturbances that lead to pain and tissue damage. Acupuncture treatments can also balance the body’s hormones and reduce the self-inflamed actions.

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