TCM Treatment for Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow | Acupuncture · Tui Na · Dit Da

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are often described as pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow when exerting force. The pain worsens when gripping objects, wringing towels, lifting heavy items, or using a mouse. It doesn't only affect those who play sports – office workers, homemakers, and those with repetitive strain are also commonly affected. SYT Wellness, led by registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner Dr. Zhang Yong (over 40 years of clinical experience), offers TCM assessments at its Wan Chai and Jordan clinics. Treatment combines acupuncture, tui na, bone-setting manipulation, and dit da external applications/Chinese herbal remedies as appropriate, to help alleviate elbow pain and improve daily function. This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for individual diagnosis, nor does it guarantee a "cure."

Who is this page for?

• Those with tenderness on the outer or inner side of the elbow, or pain when clenching a fist or lifting objects.
• Those with recurrent elbow pain after repetitive forearm/wrist use.
• Those experiencing aching or stiff elbows after exercise or office work, seeking guidance on TCM pain management.
• Those with prior Western medicine/physical therapy experience who wish to explore acupuncture, tui na, or dit da as complementary therapies.
• Those also experiencing shoulder, neck, or wrist discomfort, wanting to understand the assessment process.

Common descriptions of "Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow" (not for self-diagnosis)

Clinically, elbow pain can result from a combination of different mechanisms. The practitioner will distinguish these through consultation and examination. The following is for general understanding only:

• Pain with lateral exertion (commonly known as tennis elbow): Pain on the outer side when extending the wrist, gripping objects, or twisting lids; tenderness often near the lateral epicondyle.
• Pain with medial exertion (commonly known as golfer's elbow): Pain on the inner side when flexing the wrist or lifting objects; more commonly associated with repetitive flexor muscle exertion.
• Forearm muscle tension: Overuse of myofascial tissue due to prolonged typing, mouse use, or heavy lifting.
• Residual pain after acute sprain: Persistent dull pain after a fall or sudden exertion.
• Radiation to forearm/wrist: Requires differentiation to determine if combined with neck, shoulder, or nerve-related discomfort.

The above cannot replace a diagnosis. SYT Wellness will first diagnose before deciding whether acupuncture, tui na, bone-setting, or dit da should be prioritized.

When should you seek emergency care / Western medical attention first? (Red Flag Symptoms)

• Elbow deformity or inability to move after trauma, suspected fracture/dislocation.
• Rapid worsening of elbow redness, swelling, heat, pain, and fever, suspected infection.
• Progressive weakness in the hand, significantly worsening numbness, or nerve warning signs like wrist drop.
• Unexplained fever, rapid weight loss, or known history of tumors accompanied by severe night pain.

If you have ultrasound or imaging reports, please bring them for your first consultation.

How does SYT Wellness address discomfort related to Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow?

The core principle is diagnosis first, then treatment: understanding movement patterns, the course of the condition, and activity limitations, then combining therapies, avoiding aggressive pressure only on the painful spot.

What does a TCM assessment typically include?

• Consultation: Triggers, work/sport patterns, changes in grip strength, and nocturnal pain.
• Elbow and wrist range of motion, tender points, forearm muscle tension, and neck and shoulder examination (as needed).
• Explanation of the day's plan, advice on rest and movement rhythm (no guarantee of number of sessions).

How are treatments combined?

• Acupuncture: Commonly used to alleviate pain points around the elbow and forearm, serving as an auxiliary therapy to relieve pain.
• Tui Na: To release tension in the forearm extensors/flexors, improving stiffness and pain during exertion.
• Bone-setting Manipulation: To address related joint movement restrictions when deemed appropriate; milder approaches are used for those not suited for strong manipulations.
• Dit Da Trauma Treatment: For sprains, bruising, or chronic strain, can be combined with external medications (depending on the condition).

The actual combination is decided by the practitioner on the day of treatment. The goal is to reduce pain during exertion and improve daily function—there is no guarantee of a cure or a fixed number of treatment sessions.

What is the process for the first consultation?

1. Appointment: Book via appointment booking or WhatsApp for Wan Chai/Jordan.
2. Preparation for visit: Wear clothing that allows easy access to the elbow and arm; bring reports if available.
3. Consultation and examination: Explain pain points and aggravating movements.
4. Treatment on the day: Acupuncture, tui na, bone-setting, and/or dit da treatment as per assessment.
5. Post-visit instructions: Advice on rest and movement rhythm, hot/cold compresses, and when to return for follow-up.

Realistic Expectations

• Acute strain: For some, pain can be relieved quickly after timely assessment and reducing aggravating movements.
• Chronic recurrent elbow pain: Most cases require phased follow-up and adjustment of work/sport movement patterns; improvement is often gradual.
• If symptoms worsen or red flags appear, prioritize emergency/Western medical care.

Daily Self-Care (General, Conservative Principles)

• Reduce aggravating movements: Temporarily reduce repetitive twisting of lids, forceful gripping, or lifting; office workers should pay attention to mouse height and take breaks.
• Hot/cold compresses: For acute swelling and pain, brief cold compresses can be used; for chronic aching and stiffness without swelling or heat, warm compresses are often more comfortable.
• Avoid: High-intensity pull-ups, forceful elbow manipulation while in severe pain, or following unassessed "muscle release" forceful techniques.

Clinic Locations and Contact

Wan Chai Clinic (See Wan Chai Chinese Medicine Clinic for details)
11/F & 12/F, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 90 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel 2736 7473｜WhatsApp 5427 3297｜MTR Wan Chai Station Exit C
Monday to Saturday 9:30–19:00｜Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Jordan Clinic (See Jordan Chinese Medicine Clinic for details)
3/F, Kin Ning Development Building, 59 Pak Hoi Street, Jordan, Kowloon
Tel 2736 7033｜WhatsApp 5993 9638
Monday to Saturday 10:00–19:30｜Closed on Sundays and public holidays

Frequently Asked Questions

Does tennis elbow always require injections or surgery?

Not necessarily. Many cases of repetitive strain elbow pain can first be assessed by TCM, with acupuncture, tui na, or dit da as supportive approaches. If symptoms suggest the need for injections, imaging, or surgical assessment, Western medical consultation will be recommended accordingly.

Is acupuncture helpful for tennis elbow? Will it be very painful?

Acupuncture is often used as a supportive therapy. The sensation varies among individuals, but most find it tolerable. The practitioner will select acupuncture points based on pain points and forearm tension.

Is the treatment for golfer's elbow the same as for tennis elbow?

No. The locations and movement patterns differ, so the assessment and focus of acupuncture points/techniques will vary. It is not advisable to apply the same approach independently.

How long should one wait before seeking treatment for elbow pain?

If the pain persists for several days without improvement, affects gripping or sleep, if numbness or weakness worsens, or if it recurs frequently, it is advisable to seek assessment as early as possible. For red flag symptoms, seek emergency/Western medical care immediately.

Can I visit both Wan Chai and Jordan clinics?

Yes. Both clinics provide relevant services, and you can choose based on convenience of transportation.

What information should I bring for my first consultation?

Identification, relevant examination reports (if any), medication/allergy records, and observations about which movements cause the most pain are sufficient.

How to make an appointment?

Please visit appointment booking, or contact us via WhatsApp at 5427 3297 (Wan Chai) or 5993 9638 (Jordan).

Book an Assessment Now

Do not endure elbow pain for too long. You are welcome to book an appointment at SYT Wellness's Wan Chai or Jordan clinic via online booking, or contact us via WhatsApp at 5427 3297 (Wan Chai) or 5993 9638 (Jordan).