1) Tennis Elbow

  • Cause: Overuse of forearm muscles, especially with backhand strokes.
  • Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • Rest and activity modification
    • Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
    • Forearm stretching and strengthening exercises
    • Eccentric loading exercises (e.g., wrist extension)
    • Manual therapy (soft tissue massage, mobilization)
    • Bracing or taping for support
    • Gradual return to sport program

2) Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

  • Cause: Repetitive overhead motions during serving and smashing.
  • Symptoms: Shoulder pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • Postural correction and scapular stabilization exercises
    • Strengthening of rotator cuff muscles (especially supraspinatus and infraspinatus)
    • Manual therapy to address soft tissue restrictions
    • Ice/heat therapy for pain
    • Education on proper technique and shoulder mechanics

3) Ankle Sprain

  • Cause: Sudden direction changes or missteps on the court.
  • Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, pain, and instability around the ankle.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) in acute phase
    • Range of motion and proprioception exercises (e.g., balance board)
    • Strengthening of surrounding musculature (calf, peroneals)
    • Taping or bracing during return-to-play
    • Agility and sport-specific drills for full recovery

4) Knee Injuries

  • Cause: Jumping, lunging, and quick stops.
  • Symptoms: Pain around kneecap or inside the knee joint.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • Strengthening of quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings
    • Eccentric exercises for patellar tendon
    • Manual therapy for joint mobilization
    • Functional retraining (jumping, landing techniques)
    • Ice and taping as needed

5) Wrist Strain

  • Cause: Excessive topspin, improper grip technique.
  • Symptoms: Pain during forehand strokes or wrist movement.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • Rest and immobilization if needed
    • Gentle wrist mobility exercises
    • Progressive strengthening of wrist flexors/extensors
    • Grip technique modification
    • Functional rehab with racket handling

6) Back Pain

  • Cause: Rotational forces from serving and groundstrokes.
  • Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, or discomfort in the lower back.
  • Physiotherapy Treatment:
    • Core stabilization exercises (e.g., planks, bird-dogs)
    • Lumbar mobility and stretching exercises
    • Manual therapy for muscle release or joint mobilization
    • Posture and technique assessment
    • Gradual return to sport with movement correction

General Preventative Tips

???? Warm-Up and Cool Down – Include light cardio and dynamic stretches. Light jogging or walking to cool down can prevent stiffness and soreness.

???? Flexibility and Mobility – Stretch regularly. Consider incorporating Yoga to enhance joint range of motion and improve balance.

???? Proper Technique – Work with a coach to ensure correct stroke mechanics and service technique.

???? Equipment Check – Use a racquet with the correct grip size and string tension and wear court-specific shoes with cushioning.

???? Rest and Recovery – Schedule rest days to allow the body to recover.

Looking for Support?

At Revival Health and Wellbeing Centre, our experienced team understands the physical demands of tennis. Whether you are recovering from an injury or looking to prevent one, we’re here to support your performance and recovery every step of the way.

Contact us today on 01386 792126 or info@revival-health.co.uk  to learn how we can help you stay injury-free.