The elbow joint is responsible for flexing, extending, supinating and pronating the arm, and it is supported by many muscles, ligaments and tendons. Bodybuilding training places a lot of stress on these structures, and if too much stress is placed on the tendons over a sustained period of time, then elbow tendinitis can occur.
Types of Elbow Tendinitis
There are four main types of tendinitis that can occur at the elbow. Medial epicondylitis occurs on the inside of the joint and is commonly known as golfer's elbow. Lateral epicondylitis, on the outside of the elbow, is often referred to as tennis elbow. Biceps tendinitis occurs on the front of the elbow, and triceps tendinitis is on the back. Bodybuilders are susceptible to all of these, due to the various repetitive movements through different planes of motion they do in their training.
Causes
Tendinitis in any part of the body is usually caused by overuse of certain joints and muscles. Elbow tendinitis in a bodybuilder is most likely caused by overuse of the biceps and triceps muscles. Exercises which put the elbow at unnatural angles, or place heavy loads on the joint, are more likely to result in elbow tendinitis. Bicep curls, skull crushers and weighted dips performed with heavy weights over a sustained period of time can all contribute to the development of elbow tendinitis.
Treatment
Any bodybuilder who develops elbow tendinitis should see their doctor or physiotherapist, who can provide effective professional treatments such as acupuncture, Graston technique, active release technique or deep tissue massage. Resting the elbow and applying ice to it are simple ways in which it can be treated at home.
Exercises
When the tendinitis is subsiding, it is possible to start training again. Avoid isolation exercises such as dumbbell extensions and preacher curls which place the joint under a large degree of stretch. Opt instead for compound movements with a lighter weight like lat pulldowns and dumbbell presses. Thoroughly warm up the area prior to exercise by using a light resistance band to get blood flowing, and cool it down afterward by stretching and applying an ice pack for 15 minutes.
