Tennis Elbow: What Is It and How Chiropractic Care Can Help
March 25, 2026
David Sedghi
For several years Dr. David Sedghi lived, practiced and taught in the Bay Area, but he was born and raised here in SLO and home had been calling him back for some time.
He discovered the power of Chiropractic after working as a laborer post undergrad and becoming injured. After one adjustment, he couldn’t believe how much better he felt.
He then pursued a Chiropractic career in the Bay Area and after five years, decided to come back home to help the community that had helped to raise him.
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation around the outside of the elbow joint. It is usually caused by repetitive stress or overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm, which can lead to tiny tears in the tissue. Tennis elbow is often associated with activities that involve repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as playing tennis or other racquet sports, but it can also be caused by other activities such as typing or painting. Symptoms of tennis elbow may include pain when gripping objects, weakness in the hand and wrist, and pain when extending the wrist or elbow.
Treatment for tennis elbow may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and chiropractic care. Chiropractic treatment for tennis elbow offers non-invasive and all-natural techniques to help alleviate pain and swelling in the area and improve healthy functioning going forward.
Yes, a chiropractor may be able to help with tennis elbow. Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, including those that affect the musculoskeletal system. A chiropractor in San Luis Obispo may also recommend changes to your tennis technique or the use of a tennis elbow brace to help manage the condition.
It is important to follow a chiropractor’s recommendations and to give the elbow time to heal properly. A chiropractor can work with you to develop a plan that addresses the underlying cause of your pain and helps you recover as quickly as possible.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outer side of the elbow. This pain may be mild or severe, and it may be constant or come and go. Other symptoms of tennis elbow may include:
Weakness in the hand and wrist
Pain when gripping objects
Pain when extending the wrist or elbow
Tenderness or swelling on the outer side of the elbow
These symptoms may be worse when you lift or grip objects, or when you straighten your wrist or elbow. In some cases, the pain may be present even when you are not using your arm, and it may interfere with your ability to perform everyday activities.
Common Causes of Elbow Pain
Tennis elbow is more common in people who are between the ages of 30 and 50, and it is more common in men than in women. It is also more likely to occur in people who have occupations that require repetitive arm and wrist movements, such as carpenters, plumbers, and assembly line workers.
Tennis elbow is a common result of activities that may include the following:
Playing tennis or other racquet sports
The repetitive arm and wrist movements involved in these activities can put strain on the muscles and tendons in the elbow and forearm, leading to inflammation and pain.
Repetitive arm and wrist movements
Typing, painting, and other activities that involve repetitive arm and wrist movements can also lead to tennis elbow.
Improper technique when lifting heavy objects
Using improper lifting techniques can put strain on the muscles and tendons in the elbow and forearm, leading to inflammation and pain.
Poor posture can put unnecessary strain on the muscles and tendons in the elbow and forearm, leading to inflammation and pain.
Short Term Tennis Elbow Relief
In chiropractic care, “RICE” is an acronym that stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. These are the four basic steps that are often recommended to help manage pain and inflammation in the early stages of an injury.
Rest: The affected area should be protected from further injury and given time to heal. This often means avoiding activities that cause pain and using crutches, a brace, or other assistive devices to help you avoid putting weight on the affected limb or joint.
Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help to reduce swelling, numb pain, and slow down the flow of blood to the injury. It’s important to not apply ice directly to the skin. It’s best to wrap ice in a towel or cloth.
Compression: Wrapping the affected area with an elastic bandage or brace can help to reduce swelling and support the injured joint or muscle. Be careful not to wrap too tightly, as this can cause additional swelling and impede blood flow.
Elevation: Elevating the affected limb can help to reduce swelling by allowing gravity to drain fluid away from the injury site. It’s important to elevate the limb above the level of the heart, so blood can drain away from the injury site.
It’s important to note that the application of RICE method should be done in the first 72 hours of an injury, and that if the pain or symptoms persist, you should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
Chiropractic Treatment for Tennis Elbow
Chiropractic treatment for tennis elbow can involve a combination of techniques to help reduce pain and inflammation, and improve function in the affected area. One of the most common techniques used is spinal manipulation, which can help to improve the function of the nervous system, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve range of motion in the elbow and forearm.
Therapeutic exercises are also an important component of chiropractic treatment for tennis elbow. These exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises that help improve function and reduce pain. The chiropractor may also provide specific exercises and activity modifications to aid in healing and preventing re-injury. A chiropractor may also recommend orthotic devices or bracing to help reduce stress on the affected area and support healing. If you are experiencing tennis elbow pain, it is important to seek treatment from a chiropractor at Momentum Health Chiropractic in San Luis Obispo to get relief and prevent further injury. Book your appointment now and start getting relief today!
I highly recommend Brookfield Spine & Health Center! Dr. Peter Geary is very professional and kind! Many teaching moments and much improved health and movement! Top notch equipment and Melanie is also efficient and kind. They value life and health, they have equipped me to sustain optimal movement and enjoy the abundant life God has given me. Always a very good experience!
I cannot rave enough about the staff and Dr Sedghi at momentum chiropractic. The staff is so kind, helpful and attentive. I came in for shoulder & neck pain that quickly disappeared after my first adjustment. I’ve been coming twice a week for about 3 weeks now and notice a significant difference in my back and posture. I’m not longer hunched over and have never seen my back straight before. I never thought my scoliosis could be helped in anyway. Thank you momentum chiropractic, I couldn’t be happier and am so grateful for having stepped foot in their office!
Such a wonderful experience! Everyone is so kind and knowledgeable! I went during my pregnancy and it helped more than I ever thought it would! Definitely recommend to everyone!
I had no range of motion in my neck, but after doing a series of decompression and gentle adjustments I can move my neck more freely without stiffness or pain.
Momentum is great. Dr. Sehgi is so knowledgeable and informative. The staff is so warm and welcoming. My chronic shoulder blade and arm pain went away after a few visits and overall my posture and level of pain has improve immensely. I’ve noticed over health benefits as well stemming from the lack of chronic back pain. Would absolutely recommend
I am a senior currently receiving Spinal Decompression Therapy. This Therapy has relieved my upper back and neck pain as well as helped me to maintain an active lifestyle pain free. Dr. Pete and Melanie are very knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend Brookfield Spine Chiropractic.
I have sciatica which is painful and takes focused chiropractic treatment to relieve the pinched spinal nerve and heal. I’m just at the forefront of my treatment but am beginning to feel some results. The Team at Momentum all work hard under the leadership of Dr Sedghi. They are a most kind and caring group of professionals who provide the very best for their patients.
Add 5+ more stars to this review! Dr. Sedghi is magical along with the staff. I enjoy going in every time - it's a such a homey and welcoming environment. My body sure is grateful!
Provided much needed back pain relief. The office is very organized and flexible. I appreciate how they are able to work around by schedule. The entire team is professional and friendly.
I've recently suffered some serious injuries to my body and have been in some serious pain for some time.. After seeing Dr.David my pain level decreased and my mobility has increased.. Looking forward to healing and having my life back without pain and being able to function normally.. Thank you Dr.David
I had such a wonderful experience bringing my three-year-old in today. From the moment we walked in, the entire office was warm, welcoming, and incredibly professional. He was so kind, knowledgeable, and gentle with her, which made all the difference. The thoughtful follow-up call this evening truly went above and beyond and meant so much to us. We’re so grateful to have found such a caring and attentive chiropractor—highly recommend!
So glad I paid for the package plan, my body feels good and I actually want to stand up straighter now! Super nice staff and Dr. Sedghi always has a great attitude.
Am visiting CA and needed a chiropractor. Got an appointment next day as a new patient. The new patient special can't be beat anywhere. $47 includes exam, consultation, treatment and 2nd follow-up appt. Dr even called me after appt to see how I was doing. Might have to visit more often to continue great treatment! Thanks again
Dr. David is truly amazing! The entire staff is so friendly & welcoming that you feel right at home the moment you walk through the door. Getting my alignment fixed has been a game-changer, not just for my physical health, but for my mental health too. It’s incredible how much better life feels when you aren't in pain. I can’t recommend this practice enough!
Great staff and personalized care. Dr. Sedghi is honest and well informed. He has your best interest in mind and is willing to work to your needs. I highly recommend Momentum Health Chiropractic!
Just want everyone to know....Dr Sedghi is a miracle wrker. He is gentle . He does a great job . The staff is so welcoming, friendly. My husband and I have been seeing Dr.Sedghi regularly for 2 yrs now. Our bodies are doing well. We feel great. Love Momentum ❤️
Wonderful first visit, most importantly I felt like I was treated as an individual, no cookie cutter treatments here! You will be assessed, treated, and cared for based on all of your own personal symptoms or ailments.
Earlier this year I began to experience vertigo symptoms, constant fatigue, dizziness, and other issues that made it near impossible to live normally. When my neurologist was unable to diagnose me, I was recommended to find a “balance doctor.” As of October 1 of this year, Dr. Sedghi was the only one able to diagnose me and I began to receive treatment with a personalized plan to get me back to living normally again. Side note, the team he has in office is wonderful and helpful in every regard. After a few months now, I can say that I have been given back my life and am happy to continue seeing this team as I move forward from my plan.
Dr. Sedghi and his staff are amazing! They all have great bedside manner and the front desk people always greet me with a smile and call me by my name when I walk through the door.<br>The day I walked into Momentum Health Chiropractic, I had constant pain and tingling from my neck all the way down my left arm. If I tried to lift my head up I would get lightning bolts shooting down my arm. Now a few weeks into treatment, the lightning bolts are long gone and the pain and tingling are intermittent. I can't wait to see where it goes from here!
Thank you Momentum Health care. I have been seeing Dr. Sedghi for several weeks and I already feel relief in my back.<br>The whole team has been great, a very organized and caring team. I am very grateful, that I found Momentum Health Chairopractic.
Very professional and courteous staff. Doctor is very thorough in his approach and knowledgeable in how to achieve my desired pain relief. I recommend Momentum Chiropractic to anyone who wants passionate and effective chiropractic care.
Dr. Sedghi is the best Chiropractor I've ever been to!!! He is very knowledgeable and explains everything in a way I can understand. His Office Manager is always sweet and helpful!! I highly recommend his office!!!
Momentum is great. They get you in and get you out. The staff is very accommodating and they’re great about following up for care and getting you back in when you need it.
I was recently diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease after a couple of violent vertigo attacks. I am also convinced that the vertigo may have to do with vestibular migraine. I came to Momentum Chiropractic hoping that chiropractic treatment might be something that could help with all of my ongoing symptoms. Dr. Sedghi took a couple of X-rays that confirmed some issues in my upper cervical spine. I am just a few weeks into treatment here and am already seeing great improvement. Dr. Sedghi is kind, patient, and compassionate, and his staff is amazing. Every time I walk through the doors, I feel welcome and hopeful. I was hesitant about trying a new chiropractor. I’m glad I did and happy I found this place. Definitely recommend!
Dr. Sedghi is a bit of a miracle worker. I suffered from lower back pain for years. And after working with him for 6 months, I was basically paying free. The staff is absolutely amazing and supporting as well. Cannot recommend highly enough. Got spinal decompression. Got time on the roller table. Got an adjustments from the doctor. A life-changing experience.
I had a stubborn lower back pain for several years that didn’t seem to have any fix. After starting chiropractic adjustments at Momentum, Dr.Sedghi recommended trying spinal decompression. I have been doing spinal decompression twice a month for about a year now, and the lower back pain has been completely gone since my first appointment! Staff is always welcoming and has been more than accommodating with several schedule changes I’ve had due to work. Highly recommend!
I went in because I had been having bad headaches after brain surgery in 2015. Since coming to Momentum Chiropractic my headaches have gone down in how many I was getting. I wish I would have done it a long time ago. All the staff are very friendly. Thank you to the whole team at Momentum Chiropractic you are the best.
Dr. Sedghi and his team are very professional and welcoming. After experiencing trauma which effected my back, shoulder and legs Dr. Sedghi has been tremendously effective in getting me healthy again. We appreciate everything he has done for both my husband and I.
Dr. Sedghi is amazing! Much relief from my pain on the first visit! He definitely helped my daughter with her migraines. Professional and kind staff! So thankful for these great people!
Dr. Sedghi and the team at Momentum have made such a difference in my quality of life. I struggle with RA joint pain and disc issues. I was injured last summer which made things even more difficult and thankfully ended up in Dr. Sedghi's care.<br>The nerve pain from my spine is almost completely gone. I see Dr. Sedghi once a week now. Decompression in combination with adjustments has made a difference for me. Two of my children have also gotten relief from treatment. One from chronic ear infections and the other from athletic injuries.<br>The office is state of the art, clean and relaxing. The equipment is new and the staff are detail oriented and always concerned with my comfort.<br>I feel blessed to be part of the Momentum family.
I have only had one chiropractor that was very good but Dr. David Sedghi beats even the other guy<br>If you have never gone to a chiropractor before the doctor will make sure you are well taken care of and are comfortable. They entire team are very friendly and helpful. After the first visit the doctor calls in the evening to make sure you are doing ok an d do you have any problems.<br>Have a fantastic visit when you go.<br>CR Hutchins
Best experience I’ve ever had with Chiropractic care.. I have had back pain for years and this fixes and relieves my pain. The fabulous ladies at the front are amazing. They are so positive and friendly, always welcoming you in and making you feel comfortable. Dr Sedghi has noticed the smallest details that have been missed in the past.<br>I was having knee pain and didn’t even mention it, but he noticed my fibula was out of alignment and fixed my knee pain immediately. I look forward to every appointment for relief and feeling better.
Went in a skeptic and was pleasantly surprised with the results. Great cheerful staff and a knowledgeable Dr. make for a great experience. Thanks guys!
