Tennis Elbow Treatment
Treatment for elbow pain from repetitive strain.
Tennis elbow is a condition affecting the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, caused by repetitive strain rather than any single injury. Despite the name, it affects people from many occupations and activities involving repetitive gripping or wrist movement, not just tennis players, and the great majority of cases improve with non-surgical treatment.
Types
Acute Tennis Elbow
Recently developed symptoms, typically responding well to rest and initial treatment.
Chronic Tennis Elbow
Longer-standing symptoms that have persisted despite initial treatment attempts.
Tendinosis
Degenerative changes within the tendon from prolonged repetitive strain, rather than active inflammation.
Common Causes
Tennis elbow develops from repeated strain on the tendon attaching to the outer elbow, gradually causing microscopic damage that the body cannot keep up with repairing.
- Repetitive gripping activities - manual work, tool use, and racquet sports.
- Repeated wrist extension movements against resistance.
- Sudden increase in activity involving the forearm and wrist.
- Poor technique in sports or activities placing extra strain on the tendon.
- Age-related tendon changes making the tendon more susceptible to strain.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain on the outer side of the elbow, often radiating into the forearm
- Pain that worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting movements
- Weakness when gripping objects
- Tenderness directly over the outer elbow bone
- Symptoms that gradually worsen with continued repetitive activity
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on characteristic tenderness and pain reproduced with specific resisted wrist movements. Ultrasound or MRI is occasionally used for persistent cases to assess the extent of tendon damage.
Treatment Approach
Most cases respond to rest from the aggravating activity, physiotherapy, bracing, and activity modification, sometimes alongside anti-inflammatory treatment or injections. Surgery is reserved for the minority of cases that do not improve after a sustained period of non-surgical treatment. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna reviews the response to initial treatment before considering further options for persistent cases.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026