01What is tennis elbow (lateral epicondylalgia)?
Tennis elbow – also called lateral epicondylalgia or lateral elbow tendinopathy – is pain on the outer side of the elbow where the forearm muscles that extend the wrist attach. It is related to overload of the tendon.
It frequently affects people aged 35 to 55 whose work or hobbies involve repetitive gripping or wrist movements.
02Common symptoms
- Pain on the outside of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting a cup or kettle, or shaking hands
- Pain that may spread down the forearm
- Weak grip
- Morning stiffness in the elbow
03Possible causes and risk factors
- Repetitive gripping and wrist movements at work (typing, tools, cooking)
- Racquet sports
- A sudden increase in a gripping activity
- Lifting with the palm facing down
04How a physiotherapy assessment helps
Your assessment with Dr. Pankaj B. LokhandeBPTh, MPTh (Ortho & Sports), PhD Scholar (MUHS)
We assess elbow, wrist and neck movement, grip strength and specific tendon tests, and review your work and hobby activities.
05Rehabilitation approaches we may use
Progressive tendon loading
Gradually increasing exercises for the wrist extensor muscles.
Activity modification
Changing lifting technique and reducing aggravating load temporarily.
Grip and ergonomic advice
Mouse, keyboard, tool and racquet considerations.
Forearm brace (where helpful)
A counterforce strap may reduce pain during activity for some people.
Manual therapy
May be used alongside exercise.
Whole-arm strengthening
Shoulder and upper body strength to share the load.
Your plan is chosen after assessment. Not every approach listed here is suitable for every person.
06Who may benefit
- Office workers and heavy computer users
- Manual workers, cooks and tradespeople
- Racquet sport players
- Gym users with elbow pain on pulling exercises
07Safety precautions
- Some discomfort during tendon exercises can be acceptable if it settles within a day.
- Avoid complete rest, which may reduce the tendon’s capacity.
- Discuss injections with your doctor; repeated injections are not generally recommended.
08When to see a doctor first
- Elbow pain after a fall with swelling or inability to move the elbow
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
- Hot, red, swollen elbow with fever
09Frequently asked questions
How long does tennis elbow last?
It can last months and sometimes longer. Consistent progressive exercise tends to give the best long-term results.
Should I rest my arm completely?
Not usually. Reducing aggravating activities while doing guided exercises is generally more effective.
Do elbow straps work?
Some people find a strap reduces pain during activities. It is a short-term aid, not a cure.
Is it related to my computer use?
Repetitive mouse and keyboard use can contribute. We will look at your setup.
FURTHER READING
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an individual assessment. Recovery varies from person to person. See our medical disclaimer.
