How Do You Know If It's Tennis Elbow?

How Do You Know If It's Tennis Elbow?

Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, weak grip strength, and discomfort when lifting, gripping, or typing are the hallmark signs of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), caused by overloaded tendons rather than actual tennis. It's most common in people aged 30–50 with repetitive job roles or active lifestyles. Most cases respond well to physiotherapy and progressive strengthening, with additional treatments like shockwave therapy or injections reserved for chronic or more persistent symptoms.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow.

These tendons connect the forearm muscles to the elbow and are responsible for wrist and hand movements. Repetitive strain or overuse can lead to small tears in the tendon, resulting in pain and reduced function.

Despite the name, the condition is not limited to athletes and commonly affects individuals who perform repetitive arm, wrist, or gripping activities.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Typical symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow
• Weak grip strength
• Pain when lifting, gripping, or twisting objects
• Discomfort when using tools, typing, or using a mouse
• Pain that worsens with repetitive wrist or arm movements

In many cases, symptoms may gradually worsen over time and begin to affect everyday tasks such as opening doors, carrying items, or even holding a cup.

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors?

Tennis elbow is primarily caused by repetitive strain and overuse of the forearm muscles. Common contributing factors include:

• Repetitive arm or wrist movements
• Activities involving gripping, lifting, or twisting
• Poor technique during sport or exercise
• Work-related tasks such as manual labour or prolonged computer use
• Sudden increases in activity or workload

It is most commonly seen in individuals aged 30–50, particularly those with active lifestyles or repetitive job roles.

What Are the Self-Management Strategies?

In the early stages, symptoms can often be managed with:

• Rest and reducing aggravating activities
• Ice application for 15–20 minutes to reduce pain
• Over-the-counter pain relief (where appropriate)
• Elbow braces or supports to reduce strain
• Gentle stretching and light strengthening exercises

While these strategies can help manage symptoms, ongoing or worsening pain should be assessed by a professional.

What Are the Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow?

Effective treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring function, and addressing the underlying cause of the condition.

Physiotherapy and Manual Therapy – This is a key part of recovery. Treatment may include manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilisation to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and restore movement in the elbow and forearm.

A structured rehabilitation programme will also include progressive exercises to improve strength and tendon resilience.

Exercise Therapy – This is essential for long-term recovery and prevention of recurrence. This typically includes:

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
• Strengthening exercises to build tendon load capacity
• Functional exercises that replicate daily activities and movement patterns

A physiotherapist will guide you through a tailored progression based on your symptoms and tolerance.

Shockwave Therapy – This uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected tendon. It can help improve blood flow, reduce pain, and support recovery, particularly in chronic or persistent cases.

Ultrasound Therapy – This uses high-frequency sound waves to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and support tissue healing. It is a non-invasive treatment often used alongside rehabilitation.

Injection Therapy – In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide short-term pain relief. These are typically most effective when combined with physiotherapy to address the underlying cause and support long-term recovery.

Stimpod Therapy – This is a non-invasive electrotherapy treatment that uses neuromodulation to help reduce pain and improve nerve function. It can be beneficial in managing chronic tennis elbow symptoms and may support rehabilitation by improving pain tolerance and overall tissue response.

At Relive Physiotherapy, treatment plans are personalised and may combine several of these approaches depending on the severity of symptoms and individual needs.

Why Does Early Treatment Matter?

Leaving tennis elbow untreated or relying on rest alone can sometimes lead to prolonged symptoms or worsening pain. Early intervention helps improve recovery time, restore function, and reduce the risk of chronic issues.

A structured approach that includes assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation is often the most effective way to manage the condition.

What Are the Best Next Steps If You Think It's Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a manageable condition when addressed with the right combination of treatment, exercise, and load management.

With appropriate physiotherapy and a tailored rehabilitation plan, most individuals can reduce pain, improve strength, and return to their normal activities safely.

Don't let elbow pain affect your daily life. Contact us today to begin treatment and work towards lasting relief and improved function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need to play tennis to get tennis elbow?

No. Despite the name, tennis elbow is caused by repetitive strain on the forearm tendons and commonly affects people doing manual work, typing, or other repetitive gripping activities, regardless of whether they play tennis.

What's the difference between tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?

Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow, while golfer's elbow affects the tendons on the inside. Both are overuse conditions but involve different muscle groups.

Can tennis elbow heal on its own?

Mild cases can sometimes improve with rest, ice, and activity changes, but ongoing or worsening pain is best assessed by a professional, as early treatment tends to lead to a faster, more complete recovery.

Who is most likely to get tennis elbow?

It's most common in people aged 30–50, particularly those with repetitive job roles (like manual labour or prolonged computer use) or active lifestyles involving gripping or lifting.

What treatments help tennis elbow that hasn't improved with rest?

Physiotherapy combined with progressive strengthening is usually the main treatment. For more persistent or chronic cases, options like shockwave therapy, Stimpod therapy, or injections may be added alongside rehabilitation.

About the Author:

Niya Doiphode

Specialist Physiotherapist

Niya holds a Master's degree in Musculoskeletal Sports Science, and Health, Sport and Exercise from Loughborough University.

As a Specialist Physiotherapist at Relive Physiotherapy, she has a strong interest in running biomechanics and has authored a paper examining the impact of "super shoes" on running performance. She also has a particular passion for pelvic health, bringing a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to her practice.

At the clinic, Niya genuinely enjoys getting to know the people she treats. Outside of work, she loves exploring different cuisines, especially Asian food, along with art and rock climbing.