Understanding Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outer side of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition is not exclusive to tennis players; it can affect anyone who engages in repetitive arm, wrist, or hand movements. Below is an in-depth look at tennis elbow, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a form of tendonitis that occurs when the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outside of the elbow) become inflamed or damaged. This condition often results from repetitive stress or overuse of the forearm muscles responsible for wrist and finger extension.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is typically caused by repetitive motions that strain the tendons in the forearm. Common causes include:

Sports activities: Playing tennis, squash, or racquetball (especially improper backhand technique).
Occupational tasks: Carpentry, painting, typing, or using tools like screwdrivers.
Daily activities: Gardening, raking leaves, or lifting heavy objects.

The specific tendon most often affected is the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), which helps stabilize the wrist during movements like gripping or lifting. Over time, repetitive stress can lead to microscopic tears in this tendon.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

The primary symptoms of tennis elbow include:

Pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow.
Pain that radiates down the forearm and sometimes into the wrist.
Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects.
Increased pain during activities such as shaking hands, lifting objects, or opening jars.

Symptoms may develop gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can diagnose tennis elbow through:

Physical examination: Assessing pain during specific movements like wrist extension.
Imaging tests: X-rays to rule out arthritis or MRIs to detect tendon damage.

Treatment Options

Treatment for tennis elbow focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting tendon healing. Below are some effective approaches:

1. Rest and Self-Care

Avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
Use over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for temporary relief.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for tennis elbow. A therapist may recommend:

Stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the forearm muscles.
Strengthening exercises for wrist extensors and flexors to support recovery.
Eccentric exercises (controlled lengthening of muscles) to promote tendon healing.

3. Bracing and Support

Wearing a counterforce brace around the forearm can help reduce stress on the affected tendon during daily activities.

4. Medical Interventions

For more severe cases:

Corticosteroid injections: Provide temporary pain relief but are not recommended for long-term use.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Uses growth factors from your blood to promote healing.
Dry needling: Stimulates healing by creating micro-injuries in the tendon.

5. Advanced Procedures

If conservative treatments fail after 6–12 months:

Ultrasonic tenotomy (TENEX procedure): Uses ultrasound-guided technology to remove damaged tissue with minimal invasiveness.
Open surgery: Removes damaged portions of the tendon and reattaches healthy tissue.

Preventing Tennis Elbow

To reduce your risk of developing tennis elbow:

Use proper technique when playing sports or performing repetitive tasks.
Strengthen your forearm muscles with targeted exercises.
Stretch before engaging in physical activity.
Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks to avoid overloading your tendons.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow is a painful but manageable condition with proper care and treatment. Whether caused by sports, work-related tasks, or daily activities, understanding its causes and symptoms is key to seeking early intervention. Combining rest, physical therapy, and preventive strategies can help you recover faster and prevent recurrence.

If you suspect you have tennis elbow, consult a healthcare provider or physical therapist for a tailored treatment plan that suits your needs.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Sources

Mayo Clinic – Tennis Elbow: Diagnosis & Treatment1 8
WebMD – Tennis Elbow Symptoms & Causes2
NewYork-Presbyterian – Tennis Elbow Treatment3
Johns Hopkins Medicine – Lateral Epicondylitis Overview5
OrthoInfo – American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons7
UPMC Orthopaedics – Tennis Elbow Care6