Learn how we treat tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, bursitis, and arthritis in Kelowna. Plus, discover Dr. Cary’s new elbow pain book and upcoming event.
Elbow pain can interfere with everything — lifting groceries, working at a desk, golfing, going to the gym, even sleeping comfortably.
In our clinic, we most commonly treat four primary elbow conditions:
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
- Elbow Bursitis
- Elbow Arthritis
Each condition requires a specific approach. Here’s how we assess and manage them in practice.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Pain location: Outside of the elbow
Common triggers: Repetitive gripping, lifting, gym workouts, racquet sports, computer work
What’s happening: Irritation of the wrist extensor tendons where they attach to the lateral epicondyle
Common Symptoms
- Pain with gripping or lifting
- Weakness when holding objects
- Discomfort turning doorknobs or shaking hands
How We Treat It
- Targeted chiropractic adjustments (elbow, wrist, shoulder, neck)
- Soft tissue therapy to tight forearm muscles
- Shockwave therapy in persistent cases
- Laser therapy to support tissue recovery
- Gradual strengthening exercises
- Ergonomic and technique correction
We focus on correcting the mechanical cause — not just managing symptoms.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Pain location: Inside of the elbow
Common triggers: Golf swings, repetitive lifting, manual labor, wrist flexion activities
What’s happening: Irritation of the wrist flexor tendons at the medial epicondyle
Common Symptoms
- Inner elbow pain
- Forearm tightness
- Pain when gripping or flexing the wrist
Treatment Approach
- Joint mobilization and adjustments
- Myofascial release techniques
- Shockwave therapy if chronic
- Laser therapy
- Progressive strengthening
- Postural and movement correction
We also assess shoulder and neck function because restrictions higher up often overload the elbow.
Elbow Bursitis
Pain location: Back/tip of the elbow
Common cause: Repeated pressure, leaning on elbows, minor trauma
What’s happening: Irritation of the olecranon bursa
Symptoms
- Visible swelling
- Tenderness at the tip of the elbow
- Possible warmth or redness
Treatment
- Reducing pressure and irritation
- Gentle mobility
- Supportive bracing when needed
- Laser therapy
- Monitoring for referral if infection is suspected
Most non-infectious cases respond well to conservative care.
Elbow Arthritis
Pain location: Deep joint pain
Common cause: Wear-and-tear changes or past injury
What’s happening: Cartilage degeneration within the joint
Symptoms
- Stiffness
- Aching discomfort
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding sensation
Treatment Focus
- Improving joint mobility safely
- Reducing muscle tension
- Strengthening surrounding structures
- Laser therapy for symptom management
- Activity and lifestyle guidance
Our goal is improved function and long-term joint support.
A Whole-Arm Approach
Many elbow problems begin with:
- Poor shoulder mechanics
- Restricted wrist mobility
- Neck stiffness
- Repetitive strain patterns
We assess the entire kinetic chain to reduce recurrence and speed recovery.
With over 31 years of clinical experience and more than 100,000 adjustments performed, our approach combines hands-on care with modern therapeutic tools in a safe, structured way.
Ready for a Personal Assessment?
If you’re dealing with elbow pain in Kelowna, early care typically means faster recovery.
- Call 250-486-0062
- Visit www.tuttstreetfamilychiropractic.com
We’ll assess your condition, explain your options clearly, and create a personalized plan to help you move comfortably again.
