Acupuncture for Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is inflammation of the extensor tendon at the elbow, usually caused by repetitive overuse. Despite its name, most people with this condition don’t play tennis. Common symptoms include burning or aching pain, stiffness, swelling, and a weak grip that makes holding objects difficult.

Our acupuncturists help relieve these symptoms by targeting the affected elbow, wrist, and hand, as well as distant points to restore balance throughout the body. Treatments may include traditional acupuncture, electroacupuncture (e-stim) to stimulate muscles, and topical herbal plasters to support healing.

Western Medicine Perspective
Tennis elbow occurs when repetitive strain affects the muscles that extend the wrist. This strain can inflame the common tendon connecting these muscles to the elbow, causing pain, weakness, and reduced grip strength. Typical treatments include rest, ice, compression, physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, over-the-counter pain medications, and shockwave therapy.

Chinese Medicine Perspective
In Chinese Medicine, pain is often caused by stagnation—blockages in the flow of qi and blood. In tennis elbow, this typically involves the Large Intestine meridian. Acupuncture points along the elbow, wrist, and throughout the body help move qi, resolve stagnation, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.

Since meridians connect different parts of the body, elbow pain may be accompanied by wrist discomfort, weak grip, shoulder tension, or even digestive issues. Acupuncture addresses both local symptoms and systemic imbalances, promoting holistic healing.

How Acupuncture Works

• Local Relief: Needles release tension in overused extensor muscles and reduce tendon inflammation.

• Muscle Balance: Treatment strengthens underactive flexor muscles to restore grip and overall function.

• Neuromuscular Reset: Electroacupuncture stimulates nerve-muscle junctions to relax tight muscles and activate weak ones.

• Systemic Support: Selected points on the arms, legs, and abdomen help reduce inflammation and restore overall balance.

Your acupuncturist may also provide herbal plasters for at-home support, helping maintain relief between sessions.

Takeaways
Tennis elbow can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced grip strength. Acupuncture addresses both the local elbow inflammation and the underlying systemic imbalances, helping restore function, reduce pain, and promote long-term healing.