Tennis Elbow / Lateral Epicondylitis

Tennis elbow (medical name: lateral epicondylitis) is a common condition that causes pain around the outside of your elbow. Despite the name, it’s not limited to tennis players — it can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles.

What It Is

Tennis elbow is caused by overuse or strain of the forearm extensor muscles, especially the extensor carpi radialis brevis. This leads to tiny tears in the tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer elbow).

🛑 Symptoms

Pain or burning on the outer side of the elbow

Weak grip strength

Pain that worsens when lifting, gripping, or twisting (like turning a doorknob or shaking hands)

Tenderness when pressing on the outer elbow

🛑Common Causes

Repetitive wrist or arm movements (tennis, painting, typing, carpentry, etc.)

Poor technique in sports or work activities

Sudden increase in activity level

🛑Treatment Options

Most cases improve with non-surgical treatments:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Avoid or reduce repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting.

Use the non-affected arm when possible.

2. Ice and Pain Relief

Apply an ice pack for 15–20 minutes several times a day.

Use NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) if tolerated, for pain and inflammation.

3. Physiotherapy

Stretching and strengthening exercises for forearm muscles.

Eccentric exercises (slowly lowering the wrist after lifting).

Manual therapy or ultrasound therapy may help.

4. Bracing