Tennis elbow is far more often caused by work and everyday tasks than by sport: using tools, typing, lifting shopping bags or repeated gripping. Pain can make simple things like shaking hands or opening a jar difficult.
About tennis elbow (lateral epicondylalgia)
The muscles that bend the wrist backwards attach to a bony point on the outside of the elbow. Repeated strain overloads the tendon at that point, making it painful and less able to cope with load.
Common causes
- Repetitive gripping, lifting or twisting at work
- Long hours with a mouse or keyboard
- A sudden increase in DIY, gardening or racquet sport
- Weakness in the forearm and shoulder
Signs and symptoms
- Pain on the outside of the elbow, sometimes spreading down the forearm
- Pain when gripping, lifting with the palm down or twisting
- Tenderness over the bony point
- Weaker grip
How physiotherapy helps
- Graded strengthening exercises for the wrist extensor tendons
- Acupuncture or dry needling for pain relief
- Soft tissue treatment and elbow mobilisation
- Advice on workstation set-up, tools and lifting technique
- Guidance on braces or straps where they help
How long does recovery take?
Most cases improve significantly within three to six months with the right exercises, although longer-standing tennis elbow can take longer. Steroid injections may give short-term relief but are linked with higher recurrence, so exercise is the mainstay.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if elbow pain follows a fall and the elbow is swollen or misshapen, or if you have numbness or weakness in the hand.
Book an assessment for tennis elbow in Ilford.
Common questions
Do I need to stop using my arm?
No. Complete rest tends to weaken the tendon. We reduce the aggravating activities and build load back up gradually.
Does a tennis elbow strap work?
A counterforce strap helps some people with pain during activity. It is a short-term aid, not a cure.
How is tennis elbow different from golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow; golfer's elbow affects the inside. The treatment principles are similar.
Last updated .