Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow leads to pain and stiffness in the outer elbow, making it difficult to grip or lift objects. Learn more about symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options.
Tennis Elbow Overview
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow due to overuse or repetitive strain. It commonly affects athletes, manual laborers, and individuals who perform frequent gripping, lifting, or wrist extension movements. While the condition is often linked to racquet sports, it can develop in anyone who repeatedly stresses the forearm tendons. Early treatment can help relieve discomfort and restore function.
Types of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow can vary in severity and progression:
- Acute Tennis Elbow – Sudden onset of pain due to excessive force or strain on the elbow tendons.
- Chronic Tennis Elbow – Gradual worsening of symptoms over time due to continuous overuse.
- Tennis Elbow with Nerve Involvement – Inflammation that compresses nearby nerves, leading to tingling or numbness in the forearm and fingers.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons in the forearm become irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress. Common causes include:
- Overuse & Repetitive Motion – Frequent gripping, twisting, or wrist extension.
- Sports Activities – Racquet sports, baseball, and weightlifting increase the risk.
- Manual Labor – Jobs that involve repetitive arm movement, such as carpentry or plumbing.
- Improper Technique – Incorrect motion in sports or daily activities can strain the elbow tendons.
- Aging & Wear and Tear – Tendons lose elasticity over time, making them more prone to injury.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Tennis elbow symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen with activity. Doctors perform physical exams, ultrasound, or MRI scans to confirm tennis elbow and rule out other conditions.
- Outer elbow pain – Increases with gripping or wrist movement.
- Stiffness & tenderness – Discomfort when extending the wrist or lifting objects.
- Weak grip strength – Difficulty holding or gripping items.
- Radiating pain – Discomfort that may spread down the forearm.
- Swelling & inflammation – Tenderness along the outer elbow.
Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving strength, and preventing further tendon damage.
- Rest & Activity Modification – Avoiding repetitive movements that worsen symptoms.
- Ice Therapy – Helps reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical Therapy & Strengthening Exercises – Strengthens forearm muscles and improves flexibility.
- Medications – NSAIDs for pain relief and inflammation reduction.
- Corticosteroid Injections – Provides targeted relief for severe cases.
- Bracing or Support – Wearing an elbow strap to reduce strain on tendons.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery – Recommended for persistent cases that do not respond to conservative treatment.
Watch: What is Tennis Elbow?
Make an appointment today
Appointments in as little as 24 hours.
Schedule your same/next-day inperson or telemedicine appointment with one of our medical experts. Appointments with our medical experts start on time so that you can quickly return to your day.
