Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

What Is Tennis Elbow?
Lateral epicondylitis, more commonly known as “tennis elbow,” is a painful condition that happens when the tendons in your elbow are overworked. This is often due to repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, you don’t have to play tennis to develop this condition. It can affect anyone, from painters and plumbers to cooks and gardeners.

The pain usually starts where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the outside of your elbow, but it may also spread to your forearm and wrist over time. Activities like lifting, gripping or twisting may make the pain worse.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the forearm muscles and tendons are repeatedly strained, leading to gradual wear and tiny tears in the tendon that connects to the outer elbow bone, known as the lateral epicondyle.

Common causes include:

• Playing racquet sports like tennis or pickleball
• Repetitive use of tools (screwdrivers, hammers, paint rollers)
• Repetitive lifting, especially with the palm facing down
• Poor technique in sports or daily activities
  
  

Age can also be a factor. Tennis elbow is most common in adults between ages 30 and 50.

How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?
Orthopedic specialists typically diagnose tennis elbow through a physical exam. They will ask about your symptoms and the activities you do. They may press on the outer part of your elbow or ask you to move your arm and wrist in certain ways to check for pain.

Sometimes, your provider may order imaging tests like:

• X-rays: To rule out arthritis
• MRI or ultrasound: To check for tendon damage

Non-Surgical Options
Most people recover from tennis elbow without surgery. Common treatments include:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain.
• Ice: Using ice packs on the affected area can help ease pain and minimize inflammation.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help ease discomfort.
• Bracing: A tennis elbow brace or forearm strap can reduce strain on the elbow.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles.
• Injections: Treatments like corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be used to help lower inflammation and support healing in the affected area.
  
  

Surgical Options
Surgery is usually a last resort. It may be recommended if symptoms persist for more than 6 to 12 months despite other treatments.

Types of surgery include:

• Open surgery: The damaged tissue is removed through a small cut in the elbow.
• Arthroscopic surgery: Minimally invasive; uses a small camera and tools.
  
  

Recovery from surgery may take several weeks, followed by physical therapy.

How to Prevent Tennis Elbow
You can reduce your risk of developing or re-injuring your elbow with these tips:

• Warm up and stretch before any physical activity.
• Strengthen your forearm muscles with light weights or resistance bands.
• Use proper techniques in sports or job-related tasks.
• Take breaks during repetitive activities to avoid overuse.
• Use tools or sports equipment that are the right size and weight for you.

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If you're experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your treatment options, don’t wait to get treatment.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Orthopedic Specialists - Schedule through MyChart or call 757-534-9988.
(804-693-0529 for Gloucester, 757-302-2700 for the Eastern Shore)

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.
If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368