Tennis Elbow: What You Need to Know
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, involves irritation, inflammation, or degeneration of the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. These tendons play a key role in wrist and arm movements, particularly gripping and lifting.
Because these structures are heavily used in both daily activities and sport, they are vulnerable to overload and repetitive strain. Tennis elbow often develops gradually due to repeated stress rather than a single injury. With the right diagnosis, rehabilitation, and activity modification, most people can reduce pain and return to normal function. Below is a clear guide to what tennis elbow is, how it develops, symptoms to watch for, how it’s diagnosed, and treatment options available.
Why the Elbow Tendons Matter
The tendons on the outside of the elbow are essential for:
• Wrist extension: helping lift and stabilise the hand
• Grip strength: allowing you to hold and carry objects
• Force transfer: linking forearm muscles to hand movement
When repetitive load exceeds the tendon’s capacity, small micro-tears and irritation can occur, leading to pain and reduced function.
How Tennis Elbow Develops
There are several common ways this condition can occur:
- Overuse and Repetitive Stress
- Repeated gripping, lifting, or wrist movements can gradually overload the tendon, causing micro-damage over time.
- Gradual Onset
- Symptoms often develop slowly and may fluctuate, with flare-ups during increased activity.
- Occupational or Sporting Load
- Activities such as racquet sports, manual labour, or repetitive hand use can place continuous strain on the elbow.
- Poor Mechanics or Technique
- Incorrect movement patterns or poor ergonomics can increase stress on the tendons.
Recognising the Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the likelihood of tennis elbow include:
• Repetitive wrist and arm movements
• Participation in racquet or gripping sports
• Manual or repetitive work tasks
• Poor technique or equipment use
• Sudden increases in activity levels
• Age (commonly between 30–60 years)
How Tennis Elbow May Present (Symptoms)
Symptoms can vary but commonly include:
• Pain on the outside of the elbow (a hallmark sign)
• Pain that may radiate into the forearm and wrist
• Tenderness when touching the outer elbow
• Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects
• Pain during gripping or squeezing actions (e.g. shaking hands)
• Difficulty with movements like turning a doorknob or using tools
• Pain or stiffness during exercise or upper-body activity
Symptoms often build gradually and may worsen with continued activity.
Diagnosing Tennis Elbow
Diagnosis typically includes:
- History and Physical Examination
- A clinician will assess pain location, activity history, and test grip strength and wrist movement.
