Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

The presenter describes localized pain and heat at a specific point on the lateral elbow, accompanied by visible swelling and muscle tightness in the forearm extensors. Reduced tricep contractility and inability to pronate the wrist suggest nerve involvement or muscle dysfunction between the elbow and cervical spine.

Conservative Treatment Approaches

Standard protocols for tennis elbow include wrist splinting, compression wrapping, heat therapy, occasional ice application, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. The presenter notes that acupuncture and electrical stimulation (E-Stim) provided only modest relief.

Bench Press Biomechanics and Tricep Involvement

The pressing movement pattern, particularly the ascent phase of the bench press, involves elbow rotation generated through tricep, shoulder, and chest torque. Tricep strength directly correlates with pressing power output, making this muscle group critical for injury prevention in compound pressing movements.

Grip Strength and Forearm Relaxation

In strength sports and combat applications, grip failure reduces overall power generation despite adequate lower body and core force production. Excessive grip tension paradoxically decreases performance; training forearm relaxation rather than crushing intensity addresses the root dysfunction.

Steel Bar Rolling Tool

A weighted steel cylinder (approximately 55 pounds, two to three feet long) serves as a myofascial release device for forearm and arm tissue. The tool's rigid construction allows precise pressure application to trigger points while its cylindrical shape permits directional manipulation.

Self-Release Technique Application

The operator applies the steel bar to the forearm and rolls it proximally toward the elbow, pausing on tender points for 20-30 seconds to elicit relief. Identifying the trigger point at the bicep-forearm junction—a common site of referred pain and nerve involvement—produces notable symptom reduction.

Multi-Application Myofascial Release Tool

Beyond forearm treatment, the weighted steel cylinder can be applied to quadriceps, hamstrings, shoulders, trapezius, lower back, and calf musculature. Bilateral partner application (such as rolling across the neck or upper back) reduces physical demands on the user while allowing for heavier compression.

Tennis Elbow Smashing Therapy Part 1

Clint Darden
2 min read·7 key moments·PT7M13S video

Key Takeaways

  • Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
  • Conservative Treatment Approaches
  • Bench Press Biomechanics and Tricep Involvement
  • Grip Strength and Forearm Relaxation

A short clip for a friend about what I'm doing to assist my recovery from Tennis Elbow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about smashing elbow?

This video covers symptoms of tennis elbow, conservative treatment approaches, bench press biomechanics and tricep involvement. It provides detailed instruction from Clint Darden.

How long does it take to learn smashing elbow?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

What are the key details for finishing smashing elbow?

The operator applies the steel bar to the forearm and rolls it proximally toward the elbow, pausing on tender points for 20-30 seconds to elicit relief. Identifying the trigger point at the bicep-forearm junction—a common site of referred pain and nerve involvement—produces notable symptom reduction.