Olga Posted August 19, 2017 Posted August 19, 2017 I have got a new client whose main problem is pain on the side of the neck and inability to fully extend elbow on the same side (right): - non-athletic male - was diagnosed with a tennis elbow several years ago, after physiotherapy pain went away but the elbow still cannot fully extend. When he explains where the restriction is, he points to the area where the lateral epicondyle tendon is located (just on the outside and bottom part of the elbow joint) - neck has been X-Rayed and no structural issues were found, the doctor recommended stretching exercises as the pain on that side of the neck seems to have characteristics of the pain that comes from muscle tension In our first session we did neck stretches (all directions) and shoulder stretches (incl rotator cuff) that I borrow from Stretch Therapy repertoire, and shoulder mobility exercises on Pilates equipment. Some exercises on shoulder blades and thoracic spine stabilisation and neck/shoulder mobilisation. Then I googled this Forum and on the second session added: - two scalene stretches on the floor (one on the side and one with head rotation and neck extended) - "Ringo" stretch as in the video with Kit and Ringo (I think that was brachialis stretch?) After the first session with basic stretches the neck was already feeling better, and today after the second session with deeper stretches he said that he could finally feel the whole right side of the neck and arm fully relaxed, tension-free. Elbow still cannot fully extend. I hypothesize that the inability to fully extend elbow is related somehow to the high neck tension on the same side, so I am searching for more ways to work on that connection scull-to-elbow and asking for more exercises to try. I read about the thoracic outlet syndrom but we tested the inner side of the arm (stretched it out in front, palm up and wrist extended) and it stretches quite well without any tension or nerve pain. The wrist also shows normal pattern of mobility.
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now