Game-changing tennis injury prevention, treatment techniques

Tennis is a high-impact sport that puts stress on bones, joints, and muscles. Quick pivots and repeated swinging action contribute to the risk of injury. These prevention and treatment techniques can help.

 

Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive actions. Dr. Patterson Owings, a Daniel Island resident and hand surgeon, noted the best way to prevent tennis elbow: “Use proper techniques when hitting the ball and to use a racket that is appropriate for your skill level.” 

 

Sprained ankles are caused by twisting or rolling the ankle during a quick change of direction. Foot and ankle surgeon Dr. William Corey advised, “Proper training and conditioning can help prevent ankle sprains, as can wearing supportive shoes and ankle braces.” 

 

Shoulder injuries are common in tennis. Dr. Adam Schaaf, a sports medicine physician said, “Players should strengthen their rotator cuff muscles to prevent shoulder injuries and use proper technique when hitting the ball. Mix your serve up to avoid repeating the same motion. Train, stretch, and mobilize both sides of the body.”

 

Knee injuries can be prevented by strengthening quadriceps and hamstrings and wearing proper footwear. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Richard Zimlich explained that if surgery is needed, new surgical techniques lead to shorter recovery time.

 

Lower back pain prevention starts with strengthening core muscles and using proper technique. “Low back pain is pervasive among active men and women alike. While degenerative lumbar spine conditions are common in the general population, there are unique considerations when diagnosed in high-level athletes like those competing in the Charleston Open,” spine surgeon Dr. Don Stoval said. 

 

Game-Changing Tennis Injury Treatments

 

Many tennis injuries can be prevented with proper training, conditioning, and techniques. If rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication are ineffective, seek an orthopedic specialist consultation. 

 

Physical Therapy is often the first line of treatment for tennis injuries. “Physical therapy involves targeted exercises and stretches designed to improve the affected area’s strength, flexibility, and range of motion,” explained occupational therapist Marielle McLaurin.

 

Cortisone injections are often effective for reducing pain and inflammation in tennis elbow or rotator cuff tendinitis cases. “This treatment method injects a powerful anti-inflammatory medication called cortisone into the affected area to effectively reduce pain and inflammation and quickly relieve symptoms,” said orthopedic surgeon

Dr. David Jaskwhich.

 

Surgery may be necessary for tennis injuries unresponsive to conservative treatment. Sports medicine physician Dr. David Johannesmeyer said, “Surgical procedures can repair torn tendons or ligaments, correct bone fractures, or remove damaged tissue.

 

Platelet-rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) is a regenerative treatment option involving injecting a concentrated solution of a patient’s blood platelets into the injured area. This treatment speeds the healing process by delivering growth factors to the affected area. Daniel Island resident and interventional pain specialist Dr. Shailesh Patel

said PRP “is used for treating tennis elbow, rotator cuff tendinitis, knee, and other sports injuries.” 

 

Stem Cell Therapy involves injecting stem cells into the affected area to promote the healing and regeneration of damaged tissue. 

 

If you are a tennis player experiencing pain or discomfort, consult a qualified orthopedic specialist to explore the best treatment options.