Laser therapy for tennis elbow: what it is and who it helps
Tennis elbow is one of the most common reasons people come to see us, and most of them don't play tennis. It's usually a tendon that has been overloaded by gripping, lifting, typing or a new gym routine. It can hang around for months.
What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral elbow tendinopathy) is pain on the outside of the elbow where the forearm tendons attach. Typical signs:
pain when gripping a mug, kettle or bag
soreness when shaking hands or turning a door handle
a tender spot just below the bony point on the outside of the elbow
aching that spreads into the forearm
Why it can be slow to settle
Tendons adapt slowly. Rest alone often eases the pain, then it returns as soon as you go back to normal activity. That's because the tendon hasn't been loaded back up to cope with your daily demands.
Where laser therapy fits in
At Ando Wellness we use the MPHI 75 MLS laser, a Class 4 medical laser. It delivers two wavelengths together: one aimed at pain modulation, one at inflammation and swelling. This is known as photobiomodulation.
Research into laser therapy for tendon pain is growing. It may help reduce pain and sensitivity, so you can do your rehab exercises more comfortably. It is not a quick fix on its own. We use it as part of a physiotherapy plan, never instead of one.
What a session looks like
Initial physiotherapy assessment (50 min, £60). We confirm it really is the tendon and check your neck, grip strength and the movements that hurt. Laser is only used after this assessment.
Laser-assisted physiotherapy. A short laser application over the tendon, plus hands-on treatment where it helps.
A loading programme. Simple, progressive exercises to build the tendon's capacity. This is the part that makes the change last.
Advice on your day. Small changes to grip, workstation or training load while it settles.
Is it right for you?
Laser-assisted physio may suit you if your elbow pain has lasted more than a few weeks, keeps coming back, or is stopping you working or training. It isn't suitable for everyone, for example during pregnancy or with certain medical conditions. That's one reason we always assess first.
"I've been having treatment from Andrius for a few weeks and it's really helped me… Along with the laser treatment he also massages the target area." — Patricia M, verified Fresha review
Book in
Not sure if laser is right for you? Take our 60-second Find Your Treatment quiz, or book an initial physiotherapy assessment in Aintree.
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