Health and Wellness for Tennis Players – Stay Strong on the Court

Welcome to the Health and Wellness hub of Erdington Tennis Hub. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, staying healthy is the real game‑changer. We’ll walk through common aches, smart ways to avoid them, and a quick look at dry needling for that stubborn tennis elbow.

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a pain that shows up on the outside of your elbow. It happens when the tendons that attach to your forearm muscles get overworked. The worst part? It can sneak up after weeks of regular practice, especially if you’re hitting a lot of backhand topspins or serve practice.

The first sign is a dull ache that turns into a sharp sting when you grip a racket or lift a coffee cup. If you ignore it, the pain can spread up the forearm and make your swing feel weak.

Simple fixes work for many players: rest a few days, ice the sore spot for 15 minutes, and do gentle forearm stretches. Also, check your grip size – a racket that’s too small forces your hand to squeeze harder, which can aggravate the tendon.

Can Dry Needling Help?

Dry needling is a technique where thin needles are inserted into tight muscle spots to release tension. Recent research shows it can cut pain and improve movement for tennis elbow sufferers. Think of it as a shortcut to loosening the knotted fibers that cause the ache.

How does it work? The needle triggers a small, controlled injury that forces the body to release chemicals that calm pain. At the same time, the muscle fibers relax, letting you restore normal motion faster.

Most players who try dry needling feel a noticeable drop in pain after a few sessions. It’s not a magic fix, though – you still need to back it up with proper rehab exercises and a balanced training plan.

If you’re curious, find a qualified physiotherapist or sports therapist in Erdington who offers dry needling. Ask about their experience with tennis players, and make sure they follow safe hygiene practices.

Besides dry needling, keep these habits in your routine:

• Warm up with arm circles and gentle racket swings before hitting hard.
• Strengthen your forearm with wrist curls and reverse curls two times a week.
• Stay hydrated and fuel your body with protein and carbs to support muscle repair.
• Schedule regular check‑ins with a physiotherapist, especially if you notice early signs of pain.

By mixing smart training, occasional dry needling, and regular self‑care, you’ll keep the elbow pain at bay and enjoy longer, stronger sessions on the court.

Got more health questions? The Erdington Tennis Hub community is here to share tips, answer doubts, and keep you playing your best. Join the conversation and stay ahead of injuries.