Understanding Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is one of the most common causes of elbow pain, but you don’t have to be a tennis player to experience it! In fact, most people who develop tennis elbow have never even picked up a racket.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is a condition where the tendons on the outside of your elbow become irritated or inflamed. These tendons attach to the forearm muscles that help you extend your wrist and fingers. Repetitive stress or overuse of these muscles can lead to small tears in the tendon, causing pain.
Common Causes
Repetitive wrist or arm motions (typing, lifting, painting, carpentry, etc.)
Racquet sports like tennis or squash
Weightlifting or other repetitive gym activities
Even everyday tasks like gardening or using tools
Signs & Symptoms
Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow
Weak grip strength
Pain that worsens with activities like shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or lifting a cup
Stiffness or soreness in the forearm
How is Tennis Elbow Treated?
The good news is most people recover without surgery. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence.
1. Self-Care & Lifestyle Changes
Rest from activities that trigger pain
Ice the elbow to reduce inflammation
Use a forearm strap or brace for support
2. Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist can help you recover faster with:
Manual therapy to relieve tension
Targeted exercises to strengthen forearm and shoulder muscles
Stretching to improve flexibility
Education on ergonomics and activity modification
3. Medical Management
Anti-inflammatory medication (if recommended by your doctor)
Corticosteroid injections in persistent cases
Rarely, surgery for severe or chronic cases
Prevention Tips
Warm up before sports or activities
Strengthen your forearm, shoulder, and wrist muscles
Use proper technique with racquets, tools, or weights
Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks
Final Takeaway
Tennis elbow can be frustrating and limiting, but with the right treatment, most people recover fully. Early intervention with physiotherapy can speed up healing and prevent the problem from becoming chronic.
If you’re struggling with elbow pain, our team at Ranchview Physiotherapy, Chiro & Massage is here to help you regain strength, reduce pain, and get back to the activities you love.
Book your appointment today and start your recovery journey!
