Care began with an examination by KIRO’s team of doctors. The evaluation revealed localized tenderness at the lateral epicondyle (the outside of the elbow), pain reproduced with wrist extension and gripping, and reduced tolerance to repetitive arm motions. Mild weakness and stiffness were also noted through the forearm and shoulder, both of which influence how load is transferred to the elbow during racquet sports like pickleball.

To further assess how the irritated tendon was affecting arm function, the doctors completed a baseline nervous system scan. The scan showed elevated tension patterns throughout the upper back and neck on Jadyn’s dominant side, suggesting her spinal muscles were overfiring to compensate for extremity issues.

Based on these findings, the doctors designed a personalized three-month care plan focused on reducing tendon irritation, improving elbow and shoulder mechanics, and restoring strength. Care began with twice-weekly visits that included gentle chiropractic adjustments to the elbow, wrist, shoulder, and full spine, paired with soft-tissue therapy and forearm stretches to reduce irritation and improve movement quality.

After a month of care, our doctors repeated the nervous system scan and re-evaluated pain levels, grip strength, and functional use of the arm. The scan demonstrated decreased tension through the upper back, and Jadyn reported the pain was no longer impacting her teaching, and that she had also noticed improved grip strength. Based on these objective and subjective improvements, care transitioned from twice-weekly visits to once per week, shifting focus from symptom relief to correction and durability.

Over the following eight weeks, our doctors implemented a progressive strengthening program targeting the forearm and shoulder, along with nerve glides and movement retraining to reduce strain on the outer elbow. Technique guidance and activity modifications were also introduced to help Jadyn return to pickleball without overloading the tendon.

By the end of the three-month care plan, the doctors confirmed full resolution of activity-related elbow pain. A final nervous system scan showed tension levels within a normal range throughout the full spine, demonstrating Jadyn’s body no longer had to default to compensation patterns.