Hi Nick: I have played tennis for 20 years but had to stop about five years ago because of an arm injury caused by hitting open stance forehands (I damaged tendons on the inside of my elbow). I have been experimenting with different forehand grips to play again without having elbow surgery. Unfortunately, the grip that does not aggravate the injury is a traditional Eastern grip with a mostly fixed wrist and a closed stance (like Chris Evert in the 1970s). While I am relieved to possibly be able to play again, I strongly dislike the limitations this grip places on my game. My old topspin forehand was such a weapon that I cannot see how I can be competitive without it. Are there other options?
—Ted Murphy, New York City
Hi Ted: What happened in the past is history. We must now find a method for you to play again and avoid surgery. My tips:
1
You can be competitive with an Eastern grip, trust me. Put your open stance to sleep and try to play with a closed stance. Do this by getting into position much sooner.
2
Use a much earlier—and I mean much earlier—backswing. You cannot let the ball get behind you.
3
With your Eastern grip you must have a very long follow through that ends up above your non-hitting side. Increase your racquet head speed when you make contact.
4
Do not force your stroke and be sure to relax. Good luck!
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