About me

I am a 46-year-old busy mum of two. I enjoy regular exercise, daily dog walks, and work part-time in a school, so I am always on the move.

The problem before treatment

I injured my right elbow while swinging a kettlebell during a boot camp session and felt a sudden twinge. I initially ignored the pain and continued exercising, but the discomfort persisted for several weeks.

After visiting my GP, I was diagnosed with Golfer’s Elbow. I was advised to take paracetamol and told the pain should settle.

However, months passed and the pain became severe. Some days I felt nauseous due to how tender and sore my elbow was. Simple tasks such as carrying items or driving became extremely painful. I experienced sharp, burning sensations, tenderness over the bone, tingling, numbness, and difficulty straightening my arm. Sleeping was also very difficult, as it was painful to keep my arm either straight or bent.

What made me seek help

I returned to my GP and was referred for physiotherapy at the practice. I was advised to massage my elbow, squeeze a tennis ball, and perform these exercises daily at home.

Unfortunately, my second physiotherapy appointment was unhelpful, and I was told stress was causing my pain. Deep breathing was suggested, but this made no difference to my symptoms.

After months of poor sleep and ongoing pain that was affecting my day-to-day life, I decided to seek help from Surrey Physio, which had been recommended by several people, including my husband.

My treatment and rehabilitation journey

The physiotherapist I saw was understanding and proactive from the start. Treatment began immediately, including massage therapy to the affected area, and I was given exercises to complete daily at home.

After two to three weeks, I noticed a clear improvement in both pain and discomfort. I was also advised to use an elbow strap, which provided additional support and helped reduce symptoms.

As treatment continued, my sleep improved, my mobility increased, and the joint became far less tender.

After five sessions of massage and exercise-based rehabilitation, I experienced a significant improvement and felt no further treatment was required. I was even able to go skiing a few weeks later without any problems.

The results and progress

I experienced a substantial reduction in pain and was able to return to normal daily activities without discomfort.

Although I occasionally noticed a mild niggle, I now have no ongoing issues and have returned to lifting weights and exercising pain-free after struggling for over a year.

Where I am now

I am fully active again, exercising regularly and carrying out all daily tasks without pain or restriction.

My message to others

The advice and treatment I received were knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely caring. I can’t believe I waited so long before seeking specialist help, and I would strongly recommend Surrey Physio to anyone experiencing ongoing pain.