Overuse injuries in the upper extremities, such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and rotator cuff injuries, are common among athletes and manual laborers. These injuries can cause chronic pain and limit one’s ability to perform daily tasks and activities. Physical therapy can be crucial in preventing and treating these types of injuries. Our team at H&D Physical Therapy would like to share how you can avoid upper extremity overuse injuries, so continue reading to learn more!

Preventing Overuse Injuries In Your Upper Extremities

Overuse injuries can wreak havoc on your daily life and keep you from performing your best. Our movement experts at H&D Physical Therapy can thoroughly evaluate your physical abilities, including your range of motion, strength, and flexibility, to determine the best prevention methods. Based on the evaluation results, our therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of the following techniques:

  1. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve flexibility, range of motion, and strength in the upper extremities, reducing the risk of injury. Our experts can guide you in performing these exercises correctly to ensure maximum benefit.
  2. Manual Therapy: Manual therapy involves using hands-on techniques to help improve joint mobility and reduce pain and inflammation. This can include soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and myofascial release.
  3. Ergonomic Training: Our physical therapists can educate you on proper posture and body mechanics to reduce the risk of overuse injuries. This may include training on lifting and carrying objects properly, using tools, and performing work-related tasks.
  4. Bracing and Taping: Physical therapists can also recommend using braces or taping to support the affected area and reduce re-injury risk.
  5. Education on Modification of Daily Activities: Physical therapists can provide education and advice on modifying daily activities to reduce the risk of overuse injuries. This may include recommendations on the frequency, duration, and intensity of physical activity and proper techniques for completing tasks.

Contact Us

Physical therapy can be critical in preventing and treating overuse injuries in the upper extremities. By improving flexibility, range of motion, strength, and posture, you can reduce your risk of injury and improve your overall physical health and well-being. If you are experiencing symptoms of an overuse injury, it is essential to seek the guidance of our experts at H&D Physical Therapy as soon as possible to prevent the condition from becoming chronic and debilitating. Be sure to contact us today to learn more and request an appointment!