Gua sha treatment in acute lateral and medial epicondylitis (Tennis and Golfer’s elbow)

Abstract

Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis elbow) affects the tendons that attach to the outside (lateral side) of the elbow, primarily the wrist extensor muscles. Medial epicondylitis (Golfer’s elbow) affects the tendons that attach to the inside (medial side) of the elbow, primarily the wrist flexor and forearm pronator muscles. If an activity places repetitive strain on both muscle groups, both tendon attachments can become irritated. This research article includes 7 patients, 2 women and 5 men, aged between 30 and 60 years, treated with gua sha for lateral and medial epicondylitis. 6 patients were treated with only one treatment, with immediate pain relief and only one patient needed 3 treatments. So, while simultaneous medial and lateral epicondylitis is less common than isolated disease, it is certainly something that clinicians (particularly those working with athletes and physically active individuals) do encounter. Gua sha treatment, as part of the TCM, is a highly effective treatment for acute medial and lateral epicondylitis pain. It provides immediate relief by reducing persistent pain, allowing patients to feel better right after the session. In many cases, a single treatment is sufficient to significantly alleviate pain in the elbow, forearm and wrist region.

Keywords: gua sha, traditional Chinese medicine, epicondylitis, elbow, pain